Whether you’re listening to keep building knowledge of your craft or to psyche yourself up for an audition, podcasts are a wonderful way to learn and be inspired. If you’re not sure where to start, here are 15 podcasts that every actor should tune in to.
Backstage’s own podcast features intimate, inspirational interviews with top acting stars of stage and screen. Past guests include Brendan Fraser, Sebastian Stan, Reese Witherspoon, Ana de Armas, Jodie Comer, Ayo Edebiri, and many, many more. It’s truly a must-listen for anyone looking for advice, inspiration, and reassurance that even today’s big names didn’t always have it easy.
Every aspiring actor could use a mentor, but finding one is easier said than done. Luckily, actor and “Mentors on the Mic” host Michelle Simone Miller is here to help. Each episode, Miller speaks with notable industry names to learn how they first broke in and the advice they wish they knew back then. This podcast is, in its own words, “the place to find mentorship without having to ask for it.”
Sometimes all you need as a struggling actor is to know someone is going through it with you. “One Broke Actress” is a relatable listen. Actor and host Sam Valentine chronicles both successes and failures— her own and those of others working to make their dreams come true (while making a living) in the constantly-evolving entertainment industry.
Acting in commercials is one of the most fulfilling, exciting paths a performer can take—especially for those new to the industry. “Slate It Till You Make It,” hosted by Catherine Donnelly, is your one-stop-shop for getting into that niche. The podcast offers everything from casting director insights to audition advice and tips on navigating industry trends.
Host Michael Rosenbaum, the recognizable face of Lex Luthor on five seasons of “Smallville,” has been in the industry long enough to offer a unique perspective to every interview he conducts. Hosting names like James Gunn, Kristin Ritter, and Paul Walter Hauser, Rosenbaum is especially adept at getting guests to speak candidly and openly about the tougher aspects of their Hollywood careers, and the emotional tolls this work can take.
If you want to listen in on your favorite celebs at their most relaxed, you’ll be delighted with “Happy Sad Confused.” Host Joshua Horowitz has an incredible knack for getting his guests—including A-Listers like Jennifer Lawrence, Samuel L. Jackson, Florence Pugh, and Tom Hiddleston—to relax and talk casually about themselves and their careers. This podcast is great for hearing a side of celebrities they don’t often display for the public.
If you’re a voice actor or want to become one, check out “Sound Advice,” hosted by Backstage Expert Kate McClanaghan and veteran voice actor Jeff Finney. You’ll get the scoop on current trends and techniques to help you break into today’s voiceover market.
Veteran casting directors Jenn Presser and Jessica Sherman offer a candid, hilarious look behind the scenes of the audition process—dispelling myths, sharing incredible stories, and enjoying cocktails along the way. (You don’t have to drink while you listen, but they won’t be mad if you do!)
If you’re an actor obsessed with awards season, “Little Gold Men” is the listen for you. Vanity Fair’s podcast is an inside ticket to all things red carpet. Come for the expert analysis and predictions, stay for insightful film festival conversations and deep dives into Emmys and Oscar history.
Every actor needs a motivation boost from time to time.“The Moment,” with host Brian Koppelman—co-creator and executive producer Showtime’s “Billions”—delivers it. He interviews creatives about the pivotal moments that fueled their fascinating careers, leading them to the kind of success that budding actors dream about.
This monthly podcast is hosted by veteran actor and certified life coach DaJuan Johnson (Amazon’s “Bosch,” “Grey’s Anatomy”) and features fellow artists and industry professionals having honest conversations about their paths to success.
Actor Audrey Moore speaks with experts from the business to gather advice for actors on everything from auditions to how to better utilize your union.
“The VOHeroes Podcast” is hosted by voice actor David H. Lawrence XVII, who every episode gives listeners a look into the art, commerce, and best practices of voiceover work.
Actor and producer Alyshia Ochse hosts an honest, humorous podcast, conversing with your favorite on-screen storytellers and Hollywood influencers about their most life-changing auditions and the survival skills they’ve garnered along the way.
“A Balancing Act” is a podcast for anyone in the arts who desires more. The focus is on sharing conscious, uplifting, inspiring conversation about navigating the ups and downs of this beautiful, crazy business.
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