Tech and Talent

Tech & Talent: Ep 8 -- Paul Ruddy -- Verticals Are Taking Over Hollywood!

In this episode Brett and Jonathan sit down with Los Angeles casting director Paul Ruddy to explore the rapid changes reshaping the entertainment industry. They discuss the rise of vertical dramas (mobisodes/micro‑dramas), self‑tapes, AI tools and how casting processes and distribution timelines have accelerated. Paul shares his career journey from agency work and Hallmark/Lifetime films to casting for vertical platforms, explains how verticals create new career paths and pay well, and debunks common casting myths and misinformation circulating among actors and coaches. The conversation covers practical casting realities — in‑person vs. self‑tape auditions, production speed, what casting directors look for (preparedness, clarity of choice, teamwork), the influence casting has on final decisions, and why actors who adapt now gain a major advantage. Follow Paul Ruddy on Instagram @PaulRuddyCasting.

Tech And Talent: Ep 7 -- Eric Tomosunas -- Indie Film Secrets

A filmmaking masterclass disguised as a podcast. Brett and Jonathan sit down with Swirl Films founder and CEO Eric Tomosunas to talk indie film distribution, AI in entertainment, vertical content, and how creators can survive the changing industry. Learn more about Eric's company at SwirlFilms.com [http://www.swirlfilms.com].

T&T Ep 6 -- Rhavynn Drummer-- Self‑Tapes, AI & Callbacks: Real Talk with Rhayvnn Drummer, Chad Darnell & Al Dollar

Episode 6: Casting Is Changing If you’re an actor trying to stop guessing, stand out in auditions, and actually book work—this episode is required listening. In this episode of Tech and Talent, Jonathan, Brett, and casting director Rhavynn Drummer (with Chad Darnell and Al Dollar) get real about what’s actually happening in casting right now—and what actors are getting completely wrong. They break down the truth about AI in auditions, including the rise of AI readers and even the possibility of AI-generated self-tapes, and where casting actually stands on using it. They dive deep into commercial auditions, over-direction, and why so many actors are wasting time trying to “get it right” instead of doing what actually books. You’ll also hear: Why casting still values human connection over perfect tapes What separates actors who almost book from actors who consistently work The real reason some actors get cast (and others don’t—even when they’re better) How props, choices, and bold decisions can make you unforgettable Why clarity in your headshots and branding matters more than versatility The difference between vertical vs. traditional (horizontal) acting—and how to adjust your performance Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at callbacks, industry politics, and how decisions actually get made at the producer and studio level.

Chad Darnell -- Verticals, IP Fears, and the Hustle of Modern Filmmaking

On this episode of Tech and Talent, hosts dive into the collision of AI and entertainment with guest Chad Darnell. The conversation covers concerns about user agreements and IP ownership for AI-generated content, the rapid evolution of generative tools, and how creators can protect their work. Chad shares behind-the-scenes stories from casting and low-budget productions, including a tense on-set conflict and a last-minute role upgrade. They discuss the rise of vertical filmmaking — writing, shooting, and distributing micro-dramas — plus monetization challenges, distribution strategies, and practical tips for independent creators. The episode also explores AI’s impact on writing and production workflows, ethical and environmental considerations, and why adaptable, prepared artists will thrive in this changing landscape.

Vertical Gold: How Short-Form Dramas Are Rewriting Hollywood

Oh man, you’ve gotta hear this — Brett and Jonathan break down vertical micro-dramas, the tech that’s changing auditions, and why your demo reel might be the single best career move right now. There's good info in here (even if Jonathan is CLEARLY not a morning person!) Practical tips, behind-the-scenes truths, and a few laughs about audition chaos. Trust me, it’ll leave you ready to hustle smarter, not harder.