Think Bigger Actors Podcast
DaJuan Johnson 100 episodes Nov 9, 2026
Success in the Entertainment Industry is an inside job, starting and sustained by your mindset and the thoughts you hold. Hosted by working actor and certified life coach DaJuan Johnson (Amazon's Bosch, Grey's Anatomy), the podcast brings listeners into the minds of fellow artists and industry professionals through honest conversations about their inner journey and path to success.
Episodes
Episode 626: When Do Actors Need an Entertainment Lawyer with C.J. Stussi
Entertainment attorney and actor C.J. Stussi explains when actors should bring in a lawyer, why your agent's interests and yours can differ, and how to ask for more without risking the job. We also get into riders, AI language in contracts, and what to do if you can't afford an attorney yet. In this episode, C.J. shares her opinions. This is not legal advice, and she is not your attorney. Want mor
Episode 625: Go Vote
DaJuan discusses getting to vote! Need self-tape equipment? I've tested the equipment in my Amazon storefront so you don't have to: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thinkbiggercoaching Traveling but don't want to book out? Check out my Self-Tape Travel Program: https://thinkbiggercourses.com/selftapetravelstudioprogram/ Follow DaJuan on Instagram: @dajuanjohnson | @thinkbiggercoaching
Episode 624: Star Wars, Jar Jar Binks & the Amazing Career Behind the Character: Ahmed Best (Part 2)
In Part Two of my conversation with Ahmed Best, we pick up with how he found his way back to himself as an actor and eventually returned to Star Wars as Jedi Kelleran Beq. We talk about why Ahmed doesn't see that return as a redemption, AI and the future of performance, and what it actually means to be an actor after everything he's experienced. If you haven't heard Part One, start there. You'll w
Episode 623: Star Wars, Jar Jar Binks & the Amazing Career Behind the Character: Ahmed Best
Actor Ahmed Best opens up about the extraordinary road from Stomp to Star Wars, becoming Jar Jar Binks, and carrying the response to one of the biggest franchises in the world. In Part One of this two-part conversation, Ahmed takes us inside the craft, innovation and personal cost behind a role that changed his life. This is a conversation about what happens when an actor does the work, becomes pa
Episode 622: Why I decided to take a GLP-1
Are GLP-1s cheating? Five months into my own journey, I'm talking honestly about the weight I've lost, the judgment around getting help, and why this conversation is more complicated than people make it. Plus, actor Tony Robinette joins me to share how GLP-1s changed his health, his body—and even how Hollywood sees him. (16:32) -- Need self-tape equipment? I've tested the equipment in my Amazon st
Episode 621: Acting Career: How to Handle the Gaps Between Acting Jobs | Stacie Greenwell
Working actor Stacie Greenwell (The Pitt, Cross) gets real about the start-and-stop reality of an acting career and the constant question: "What's next?" What do you do when you're booking, your career is moving, and somehow it still doesn't feel like enough? ------------ Need self-tape equipment? I've tested the equipment in my Amazon storefront so you don't have to: https://www.amazon.com/shop
Episode 620: How to Audition for Verticals - Kristen Brancaccio
Director Kristen Brancaccio breaks down how vertical dramas work, why each app calls for a different audition, and what makes an actor stand out on tape. We also talk about Issa Rae's Screen Time, Keke Palmer's Lady Miss Jacqueline, where this format may be headed, and what actors can make instead of waiting for permission. Want more auditions—and a better shot at booking them? Download my free Bo
Episode 619: How to Know When to Say No to an Acting Job
Should you work as a local hire if you have to pay your own travel and might actually lose money on the job? Same question for an unpaid acting project that promises footage or a credit. And how do you know if you've outgrown an opportunity and just don't know it yet? In this coaching episode, DaJuan helps an actor figure out when taking a short-term loss is a smart strategic move and when it's ti
Episode 618: Acting Industry: Are Actors Already Behind On Verticals? With Guy Chachkes
Today I am sitting down to talk with Guy Chachkes, Owner & Co-Founder at Reelarc. Are verticals here to stay, and if they are, are actors already behind? I hope this conversation brings you more clarity as we navigate what it means to be an actor in 2026. Want more auditions—and a better shot at booking them? Download my free Booked It Self-Tape System: https://thinkbiggercourses.com/self-tape-sy
Episode 617: 10 Things Actors MUST Hear From TV Directors - Jody Margolin Hahn + Mary Lou Belli
10 Things Actors MUST Hear From TV Directors - Jody Margolin Hahn + Mary Lou Bell! This is one you do not want to miss! Want more auditions—and a better shot at booking them? Download my free Booked It Self-Tape System: https://thinkbiggercourses.com/self-tape-system/ Need self-tape equipment? I've tested the equipment in my Amazon storefront so you don't have to: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thin
Episode 616: How to Use a Teleprompter for Self-Tapes
Someone called me a con artist for suggesting actors use a teleprompter. So… let's talk about it. I'm breaking down when I use one, why I use one, and why the rules of self-taping have changed. Want more auditions—and a better shot at booking them? Download my free Booked It Self-Tape System: https://thinkbiggercourses.com/self-tape-system/ Need self-tape equipment? I've tested the equipment in
Episode 615: How AI Is Already Replacing Actors. Ashley BeLoat's Story
Vertical dramas already stealing actors' likenesses? Bet you thought that was just an urban legend. Nope. It's here. When I read Ashley BeLoat's story in Business Insider, I had to have her on the pod. She joins me to talk about what happened, the reality of working in verticals, and what actors need to understand now that AI isn't some future threat. It's already here. Want more auditions—and a b
How to Build an Acting Career with Talent Agent Anthony Boyer
What happens to your acting career when the auditions slow down? Is your whole vision for your acting career contingent on your reps? Oof. Been there...think I might still be there if we're being honest. In this Re-Think, I revisit my conversation with theatrical agent Anthony Boyer after I listened to a talk with a showrunner where they said they work harder than their reps, and gets most of the
Episode 614: How to Stop Putting Your Life on Hold for Your Acting Career.
Stop putting your life on hold for a job you haven't booked. Live yo' life! In this episode, listen to a real coaching session I have with one of my actors inside First Team Collective. We all do this. We don't take the trip. We don't make the appointment. We don't make the move. Because… what if they call? But what if they don't? And even better—what if they do, and it all works out? If you've be
How to Do Some Inner Work?
Today is all about your mindset. Now is the time to do the work. It's okay to grieve the industry you once knew, as long as you get back up and keep moving forward. Want more auditions—and a better shot at booking them? Download my free Booked It Self-Tape System: https://thinkbiggercourses.com/self-tape-system/ Need self-tape equipment? I've tested the equipment in my Amazon storefront so you do
Episode 613: Eric Nenninger - How to Build a Sustainable Acting Career
From Malcolm in the Middle to the upcoming revival, Eric Nenninger shares what it really takes to build a sustainable acting career—including self-tapes, life after a hit show, and why he chose to leave Los Angeles. Website: https://ericnenninger.com/ Instagram: @ericnenninger
Pam Carbonero - Episode 612: How to Stop Waiting for Permission
What if the thing holding your career back isn't a lack of opportunity—but waiting for someone else's yes? Pam Carbonero joins me for a conversation about leadership, reputation, and creating your own momentum. CONNECT WITH PAM: Instagram: @latinadirector CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 612: Pam Carbonero - How to Stop Waiting for Permission
What if the thing holding your career back isn't a lack of opportunity—but waiting for someone else's yes? Pam Carbonero joins me for a conversation about leadership, reputation, and creating your own momentum. CONNECT WITH PAM: Instagram: @latinadirector CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 611 - DaJuan Johnson - State of the Industry: What Getting My Show Canceled Taught Me
I'm back. In this State of the Industry episode, I open up about the cancellation of Electric Bloom, what I learned from losing another series, and why nobody talks enough about what happens after the job ends. I get into why your community is your ceiling and why who you surround yourself with matter more than people think. I also talk about reimagining what it means to be an actor in 2026, why I
How to Create Verticals — Let's Talk!
Vertical dramas — those two-minute, phone-first shows on apps like Tubi, ReelShort, and MyDrama — are now an $8 billion business. SAG just launched a Verticals Agreement. Fox is producing hundreds. Disney's investing millions. In this episode, DaJuan breaks down how to do verticals — what they are, why they matter, and how actors can use this moment to stop waiting for permission and start creatin
He Said I Manipulated Actors
Go ahead and sit down for this one! CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 610: DaVida Chanel Baker - How to Build a Real Partnership With Your Reps
Talent Manager DaVida Chanel Baker breaks down what reps are really looking for—and how to turn your rep relationship into a true partnership. A must-listen for actors ready to take control of their careers. Casting Network: For a limited time, Casting Networks is offering our listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership when you use the code "THINKBIGGER" at checkout, and start submitting to c
Your Other Dream
So you want to be an actor and also something else? Good, let's talk about it! CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 609: Shaz Bennett - Special Edition: Booked & Busy Actors Retreat
Showrunner Shaz Bennett (Queen Sugar, Bosch) reveals what makes a self-tape stand out—and what casting is really looking for. A must-listen for actors who want to stop guessing and start booking. Casting Network: For a limited time, Casting Networks is offering our listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership when you use the code "THINKBIGGER" at checkout, and start submitting to casting calls r
Episode 608: Jon Snow - How Being a Reader Changed the Way I Audition
Before booking recurring roles on Criminal Minds and The Rookie, Jon Snow spent hours in the audition room as a reader for a casting director. In this episode, Jon shares what that experience taught him—why the actor who's most present often stands out, how over-rehearsing can kill a moment, and the small shifts that can make a performance land. He also pulls back the curtain on what casting is ac
How to Work With a Coach
Once you have an acting coach, you then have to learn how to work with one. Don't worry, I'll tell you how to do it in this episode. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 607: Denise Sanchez - How to Bounce Back After a Bad Audition
One day, she's crying in her car after bombing an audition. The next? Recurring roles on NCIS: Los Angeles and Bosch: Legacy. In this episode, Denise Sanchez shares the raw truth behind her rise—how burnout almost made her quit, what pulled her back in, and the mindset shift that changed everything. This one's for any actor who's ever felt like giving up... but didn't. Casting Network: For a lim
Episode 606: Luke Barnett - How to Make It in Hollywood (When They Don't See You as the Star)
You write it. You star in it. It wins awards… and still, they only see you as "the writer." In this episode, actor and creator Luke Barnett gets brutally honest about what it's like to break through—and still be overlooked. We talk about identity, resilience, and what it really takes to carve out a place in Hollywood when the industry has other plans. This one's for the actors building something r
How To Book Work
She booked it! In this episode, I sat down with a Think Bigger Coaching client who just booked a role on the same Disney show I recur on. We talk about what it's like working together on set, how she landed the role, and the truth about self-taping in today's industry. This is what I mean when I say #SeeYouOnSet—it's not just a phrase. It's the whole mission. Grab the Self Tape Playbo
Episode 605: Johnny Sibilly - What Success Doesn't Solve: Pressure, Visibility, and Choosing Rest.
Success doesn't silence self-doubt. In this powerful episode, Hacks and Pose star Johnny Sibilly gets honest about what happens after the big break. From the pressure to represent entire communities to the toll of always having to "be on," Johnny shares the side of success most actors never hear about. If you've ever felt like rest isn't an option, or visibility comes at a cost—you need this conv
Don't Move to L.A
Season 6 - Don't Move to L.A. Grab the Self Tape Playbook! http://www.selftapeplaybook.com/ CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 604: Tony Rodriguez - The Simpsons Episode
Actor, writer, and voice of The Simpsons' first gay Cuban character, Tony Rodriguez, joins me to talk about taking creative risks, breaking barriers—and how one self-tape he posted for fun led to the role of a lifetime. This is what happens when you stop waiting for permission and just put the damn tape out. Casting Network: For a limited time, Casting Networks is offering our listeners $65 off a
The Wolfpack Episode
Season 6 - Finding your wolfpack! Grab the Self Tape Playbook! http://www.selftapeplaybook.com/ CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 603: Brent Bailey - The Success Your Own Way Episode
From Romcom lead to producer to low-key house flipper, Brent Bailey is proof that success doesn't have to look like a straight line. In this episode, Brent talks about betting on yourself, writing the movie that got him on Lifetime, and why taking the "untraditional" path might be the smartest move you make. Casting Network: For a limited time, Casting Networks is offering our listeners $65 off
Agents: Abuse and Finding the Right One
Season 6 - Let's talk agents! Grab the Self Tape Playbook! http://www.selftapeplaybook.com/ CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me out at: www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 602: Brandi Nicole (Writer, Bosch - Ballard) – The Job to Job Success Myth Episode
What if everything you believed about "making it" in this industry was a lie? Actor, writer, and creator Brandi Nicole drops the truth about the myth of job-to-job success, building a career outside of LA, and reclaiming your creative power—on your terms. Grab the Self Tape Playbook! http://www.selftapeplaybook.com/ CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? Check me ou
Episode 601: State of the Industry
Season 6 kicks off with DaJuan Johnson breaking down the current State of the Industry—what's shifting, what's working, and what actors need to know now. Kicking off Season 6 of the Think Bigger Actors Podcast with a powerful State of the Industry episode—hosted by DaJuan Johnson. Grab the Self Tape Playbook! CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? www.thinkbiggercoachin
Post Election Thoughts
A couple weeks after the 2024 Presidential election and I've got a few things to say...so, I pulled up a chair and laid it all out on the POD. Just me, my thoughts and a bit of a broken heart looking for a little bit of clarity. TAKE THE QUIZ: http://www.theselftapequiz.com CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Acting Teachers
Welcome back to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! This week, I share the four things you should consider when looking for an acting teacher. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 514: Ronnie Steadman - The Actor Taxes Episode
In this episode, I sat down with Ronnie Steadman, a tax professional specializing in the entertainment industry, to discuss the financial challenges actors face. Every creative needs to listen to this episode! CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching SELF TAPE PLAYBOOK: HERE! TAKE THE QUIZ: www.theselftapequiz.com WHO IS THIS GUY? www.thinkbiggercoaching.com CONNECT WITH RONNIE: https
What Have You Cosigned On?
Welcome back to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! This week is all about breaking down your limiting beliefs and being honest with yourself. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching WHO IS THIS GUY? www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
Episode 513: Raymond Lee - #1 on the callsheet Episode
In this episode, I sit down with Raymond Lee to discuss all things acting and mindset. It's another episode that is not to be missed. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching SELF TAPE PLAYBOOK: HERE! TAKE THE QUIZ: www.theselftapequiz.com WHO IS THIS GUY? www.thinkbiggercoaching.com
This Industry Is Not Corporate America
Welcome back to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! I am so excited to be here and share my version of a D-12 minisode with you all! I hope you enjoy it. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching
Episode 512: Tom Bernardo - The Showrunner Episode: Bosch: Legacy
In this episode, I sit down with Tom Bernardo, the showrunner of BOSCH, at the Think Bigger Actors Retreat, and we dive deep into the importance of preparation, the power of surprise, and how actors can make their mark by staying ready for their next big moment. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching SELF TAPE PLAYBOOK: HERE! TAKE THE QUIZ: www.theselftapequiz.com WHO IS THIS GUY? www.
Minisode: The Cult of Average
Welcome back to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! I am so excited to be here and share my version of a D-12 minisode with you all! I hope you enjoy it. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching
Episode 511: Cara Chute Rosenbaum - Think Bigger Actors Retreat Guest Speaker
Casting director Cara Chute Rosenbaum joins me as a guest at the annual Think Bigger Actors Retreat, sharing invaluable insights on the importance of self-care, mastering self-taping, and embracing authenticity in auditions. Her powerful statement, "Wouldn't call you in if you couldn't book it," resonated deeply with every actor, prompting reflection and inspiration. This is not a podcast you want
Episode 510: Paul Calderón - The Seasoned Professional Episode
Today on the Think Bigger Actors Podcast, we have the legendary Paul, a true veteran of the acting world. Paul shares his incredible journey from aspiring baseball player to renowned actor, guided by an unwavering passion for the craft. He delves into the lessons learned from decades in the industry, the importance of trusting your instincts, and the ever-evolving nature of acting. Discover why Pa
Episode 509: Adele James - The UK Episode
Adele James. British actress: Casualty, Netflix's African Queen Docuseries, Queen Cleopatra – she played Cleopatra. Adele is also the creator of the Empowered Actors Network, Holistic Approach for Actors, a global program dedicated to helping actors navigate the industry's realities with resilience and strategic insight. She shares her journey of building systems and networks from scratch, the em
Episode 508: ARIZONA: The Reimagined Actor LIVE episode with Bella Hibbs + Andrea Courtney
Live Podcast brought to you from the Reimagined Actor Experience. Today's episode I dive in deep with Andrea Courtney LA manager at Established Artists and Bella Hibbs, Casting Director - based in Arizona. We really pull a part the industry as it is right now and that pesky DO LESS note that we get from casting directors. Oof! It's been wrecking actors' confidence for ages now. Think Bigger Act
Episode 507: Spencer Garrett - The Longevity Episode
Spencer Garrett – 3rd generation actor – Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty. Bosch, For All Mankind, Credits upon, Credits. Spencer works…but the convo that really got to me was the evolution of his roles and how he managed to stay relevant in the industry for nearly 40 years, along with his perseverance in the acting profession. The shift from in-person auditions to self-tapes and the
Episode 506: Jodie Bentley- The Branding Episode
In this episode, I sit down with Jodie Bentley, Career Coach for Actors. who emphasizes the importance of business skills and mindset in the industry. But, I know her as the BRANDING QUEEN. Jodie's expertise in branding has made her a leading figure in our industry, helping actors define their unique identity and stand out in a competitive market. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching
Episode 505: Rose Rosen - The Casting Corner Continued
Today's guest we have Rose Rosen, Casting Director and Host of the podcast Casting Confidential! We break down so much in this freaking episode. We deep dive into the business of acting in this podcast. I always love hearing this broken down from a CD's perspective: Slates, Self-Tapes. How to really build relationships with Casting Directors, and so much more. I say, grab a snack or throw me in y
Episode 504: Kayhun Kim - The Cocaine Bear Episode
In this episode, I sit down with Kahyun Kim and do some cocaine. Okay, that part is a lie, but we do talk about booking her amazing role in the film, Cocaine Bear. Having to act with a silver ball, working with Elizabeth Banks, and why it's so freaking important to bring "F*ck it" to your career. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching SELF TAPE PLAYBOOK: http://www.selftapeplaybook.c
Episode 503: Jon Lindstrom - The Multi-Hyphen Actor Episode
In this episode, I sat down with the multifaceted Jon Lindstrom, known for his iconic roles in "General Hospital," "As The World Turns," and his new title of best-selling author, with the "Hollywood Hustle." This conversation delves deep into the valleys and peaks of an acting career, the mindset required for longevity in Hollywood, and the importance of diversifying your creative endeavors. CON
Episode 502: Cameron Britton - The Emmy Nominated Actor Episode
We're kicking off Season 5 with Emmy nominated actor, Cameron Britton. I first fell in love with this guy after his incredible performance as a famous serial killer in 'Mindhunter'. But, maybe you know him from 'A Man Called Otto' opposite Tom Hanks, 'Umbrella Academy' opposite Mary J Blige or 'Manhunt'. Cameron is a working freaking actor… And he popped in and chatted with me and some think big
Episode 501: DaJuan Johnson - State of The Industry
In this Season 5 kickoff of the Think Bigger Actors Podcast, I dive into the current state of our industry, reflecting on the impacts of the recent strike, my agency imploding, and the ever-evolving dynamics of what it means to be a "working actor" today. I'm using this S5 opener as a call to action for actors at every stage of their career to reassess their goals, strategies, and perspective as
Episode 413: John Levey - The Casting Director Series
Today's guest is Casting Director John Levey. He might not like being called a legendary casting director, but when you worked on some of the greatest shows – ER, West Wing, and Shameless – I think we can call ya a legend. Or at least legend adjacent. We chatted about his new book RIGHT FOR THE ROLE (link below) and so much more…but his take on bringing these few things as some of the secret sauce
Episode 412: Seth Caskey - The Casting Director Series
Today's guest is Casting Director Seth Caskey. Mayor of Kingstown, What/IF, Glow. A few things we talked about… How he used to be an actor and the turning point that led him to Casting. How being a professional actor, he has time for…not needy actor energy. Being in the room is the part of the job he loves the most, but that same part of the job also wears him out. How to keep in tou
Episode 411: Anthony Boyer - The Agent Episode
The AGENT EPISODE: Anthony Boyer Breaks It All The Way Down This might be one of the most important podcasts I've ever done. Whether you are a new actor, development, or veteran. This talk with Anthony Boyer was amazing. Topics covered: Why ACTORS ARE BAD BOSSES of their Acting Business How not being prepared for your self-tapes can get the kiss of death How Actors Are asking the WRONG QU
Episode 410: Sarah Louise Lilley - The Tapping Episode
STRIKE STRIKE STRIKE! And we're back…Strike be damned! Today, we are catching up on all things STRIKE related…and then we are going to calm our anxieties and fears with some TAPPING. Sarah Louise Lilley is here to chat with us. **Don't forget to stick around til the end for D-12 Coaching Shot, where I bring it all together. CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @thinkbiggercoaching TAKE THE QUIZ: www.
Episode 409: Dennis Gonzalez - The Manager Episode
Dennis Gonzalez talks about change, transition, and evolution in today's industry. We also dive into actors seeking outside validation and a new mindset around it. But, my favorite is the question that you should ask yourself about this moment in our industry: Is this something you're willing to go through…to continue to persevere through? This is another fire episode, and I hope you stick around
Episode 408: Brian Michael Smith - The Pride Month #TBT Episode!
Throwback to last year's interview with Brian Michael Smith. It was so good that I had to feature it again. This time, with a new Intro and D12 shot! Today's episode we have Brian Micheal Smith, the first Black Trans Man cast in a series regular role on network TV! Lone Star 911. This is such an inspiring episode - not because it's the Pride Month, Trans Episode – that part IS pretty amazing. Bu
Episode 407: Giovanni Porta - The Why I left Acting And I'm Happier Episode
Today's guest we have Giovanni Porta – Writer, Producer, Actor. This episode was so freaking special. Giovanni was so real, so transparent about why he stopped acting. How it wasn't fun anymore and he literally had to stop for his mental health. I got chills listening to him. And of course, he goes on and lays out his path for now how he has found so much success pitching and selling his scripts
Episode 406: Josh Brener - The Working Actor Episode
The Working Actor Series Today's guest we have Josh Brener, The Last of Us, Glory Daze, Silicon Valley - and so many other voice-over characters you know and love. We talked about his trajectory to CAA and how it wasn't as smooth as I had romanticized it in my head. You know because sometimes from the outside we see people get on a BIG SHOW like HBO's Silicon Valley or in the trades we see they'r
Episode 405: Ciera Payton - The Wendy Williams Episode
Ciera Payton is an accomplished actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist hailing from New Orleans. Most recently, Ciera showed her talent for bringing real people to life in Lifetime's Wendy Williams biopic. Williams' superfans campaigned on social media to cast her as the larger-than-life celebrity and Ciera's raw portrayal of the infamous talk show host did not disappoint. She landed her first
Episode 404: Jamie McShane - The How Long It Took To Be A Series Regular Episode
Today's guest is Jamie McShane. You might know him from the hit Netflix show Wednesday, or the Lincoln Lawyer, or freaking Bloodlines – which I was a huuuuge fan of…so when he came on to BOSCH and I got to work with him. Why did I want to get him on here soooo badly? Not because has been on all of those hit shows…and not because he's a friend of mine…but honestly because of his story. I think it's
Episode 403: Lisa Zambetti - The Casting Director Data Episode
Today I pulled up a chair and chatted with Casting Director, Lisa Zambetti. She cast a slew of things, but most recently Criminal Minds. We dove deep and she addressed the State of the Industry right now, she shared some HARD DATA on what she's seen with actors that have booked and gave some GREAT words of wisdom on why the clothes in your closet make the best wardrobe for your characters…I'd neve
Episode 402: Miata Edoga - The Money Episode (Stop Subscribing To The Struggle)
I'm going to tell you right now…if you have aligned yourself with the struggle of "Actors always get taken advantage of when it comes to money." or the "starving artist trope…" this is not the podcast for you. Because your toes will be stepped on…in the most loving way. So I'm going to ask your permission – should you choose to keep on…that your toes might get a little hurt. Cuz, Baby…we're talk
Episode 401: All Things DaJuan (Let's Talk About The Business)
Welcome to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast; I'm your host DaJuan Johnson. In this Season 4 opener, I break down the top 7 things I learned last year about being a working actor…from the depression that followed after coming off of my show of 7 seasons…to really understanding in a different way the difference between auditioning and self-taping to finding my voice again. It's all here for everyone
Episode 316: Craig Archibald - My Personal Acting Coach Episode
Welcome back to this week's podcast of the Think Bigger Podcast! This is it! The season finale! (But don't worry, season four is coming soon) I brought in my current acting coach. Craig Archibald – you are definitely going to want to hear this talk. He wrote the book THE ACTORS MINDSET which is linked below. I have been working with him privately for just about 4 or 5 years. And I just started to
Episode 315: Jim Titus- The Big Booking That Didn't Get Picked Up Episode
Welcome back to this week's podcast of the Think Bigger Podcast! You know, so much of our career as actors we are chasing the SERIES REGULAR role…it's the pinnacle of an actors career – so they say…well, what happens when you get that series regular role…you shoot it…you wait for it to get picked up, everything looks like it's a gooooo…and it doesn't happen. The network and studio pass on the proj
Episode 314: Sam Valentine- The One Broke Actress Episode
Today's guest we have Sam Valentine – Actress, and host of the One Broke Actress Podcast, where she shares her day-to-day life as a working actress…Has a Patreon Community, Has a podcasting business…she's pretty much killing it. But, this podcast was so open and vulnerable…I mean, I haven't heard ALL of the interviews she's doing before this, but I feel like we connected and it made her open up m
Episode 313: Pej Vahdat - The Working Actors Episode
Welcome back to another episode of the Think Bigger Actors podcast! Today's guest is Pej Vahdat - actor on Hulu's new series - The Old Man with Jeff Bridge, City on a Hill on Showtime…and one of my favorite Dex Dexter on Dynasty. And how his one episode on BONES turned into 8 – this is what a working actor looks like – …but I really want you to hear his ORIGIN story on how he couldn't get an agen
Episode 312: Kikéy Castillo - The Booking that First Co-star and Beyond Episode
Welcome back to another episode of the Think Bigger Actor's Podcast and Happy Labor Day! Boy, do I have the perfect episode for all you actors out there. Today's guest we have Kikey Castillo who is an actress who is out her kicking butt and recurring her butt off. You probably know her from Mayans MC, DC's Stargirl, and/or Never Have I Ever. She is a true talent and holds a special place in my he
Episode 311: Tara Tomicevic -The Quitting Acting and become a successful producer/writer Episode
Welcome to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast I'm your host, DaJuan Johnson…and today we are talking about leaving the business. Making that decision… and then pursuing another avenue. Now don't get scared this episode is way more than switching careers. Tara Tomicevic is our guest today and before she made the leap to writer/producer she was an actor first. She shares a lot of great advice for the w
Episode 310: Sam Stiglitz - Casting Director - The Debunking Misinformation
Welcome back to another episode of the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! Our guest today is Sam Stiglitz and wow has she been blowing up the Instagram/Tik Tok streets. This is truly the Debunking Misinformation Episode. We talked about her husband asking her to stop trolling. Why Actors need to follow their immediate instincts. What teachers beat out of actors and why it's important to keep these aroun
Episode 309: Jack Wallace and Mariann Aalda (The Put In The Work Episode)
Welcome to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! I'm your host, DaJuan Johnson, and today I have TWO guests for you. Accent Coach, Jack Wallace, and Actress, Mariann Aalda. This episode is all about putting in the work and career longevity. Go get your dreams tribe and don't forget to stick around till the end where I bring it all together with my D12 shot! ---------- Watch the video podcast on Youtub
Episode 308: David Blue - The Real Real Actors Journey Episode
Welcome back to another episode of the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! Today I am talking with actor, and acting coach, David Blue. You might recognize David from his recurring role on 'Ugly Betty' or from his series regular portrayal of Henry Danger in 'Stargate'. This talk is real and so important. I hope you enjoy it. If you do... shoot me a message in the DMs! I love to hear from you all. Watch t
Episode 307: Johnny Rey Diaz - The Working Actor Episode
Welcome back to another episode of the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! Today I was honored to talk with my friend, Johnny Rey Diaz. You may recognize him from Bosch or Pam & Tommy but pretty soon you'll be seeing him back on your screens! Since recording this episode Johnny has booked his first Series Regular!! So I guess what he says in the podcast is true... Dreams really do come true! I hope you e
Episode 306: Brian Michael Smith - The Pride Month Episode! Happy Pride!
Welcome to the Think Bigger Actors Podcast! I am so excited to share this very special episode today in honor of pride month! Today I had the pleasure of talking with Brian Michael Smith. He is an incredible actor and human who happens to be the first Black trans man cast in a series regular role on network TV! This episode inspired me and gave me chills. I'm so excited for you to listen and take
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