The Working Actor NYC

Actors: You Did The Work... And Still Didn't Get Asked Back

The rejection you didn't see coming. What happens when you help build a project… and then the project moves forward without you? In this LIVE episode of The Working Actor NYC podcast, Benjamin and Patrick dig into one of the most painful — and least discussed — experiences actors face: being part of the reading, workshop, lab, or regional production… and then not being invited back. Benjamin shares his recent experience of being dropped from a Broadway-bound project, and members of the acting community share their own stories of rejection, replacement, heartbreak, resilience, and recovery. This episode includes: • stories from actors who helped build shows and were later replaced • conversations about self-worth and rejection in the acting industry • thoughts on how actors recover emotionally and professionally • field reports from NYC casting offices and the theater community • a discussion about series regular auditions, managers, and “moving up the ladder” in TV Featuring stories and perspectives from: Kimberly Doreen Burns Lauren Pastorek Jackie Petroccia If you’ve ever felt left behind by this business… this episode is for you.

Do You Have To Be Selfish To Succeed As An Actor?

Do you need to be selfish to succeed as an actor… or is that just insecurity in disguise? We break down confidence, ego, and the real behaviors that shape a career in the room. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, we tackle a deceptively simple question: do you have to be selfish to succeed as an actor? What starts as a surprising on-set interaction quickly opens up a deeper conversation about confidence, status signaling, and the fine line between self-belief and ego. From actors subtly “flashing credentials” to moments of bold self-positioning in the room, we unpack what these behaviors actually mean—and whether they help or hurt in a collaborative industry. Along the way, we break down real audition struggles, including a listener-submitted story about a dance call gone wrong, and explore the mental habits that can either derail or save you in high-pressure moments. We also dig into the idea of “infrastructure” in an actor’s career—from daily habits to unexpected homework like watching television with intention—and how clarity, resilience, and self-awareness ultimately shape long-term success more than any single moment of confidence or ego.

The Lie That You're "Behind" As An Actor

Are you falling behind as an actor… or does it just feel that way? In this LIVE episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood dive into one of the most destructive beliefs actors carry: the idea that everyone else is ahead. They unpack the comparison trap, the illusion created by social media, and why acting careers don’t follow timelines — even though we keep trying to force them onto one. They also discuss late starts, the long middle of an acting career, and why longevity matters more than early success. If you’ve ever felt like you started too late, haven’t booked enough, or watched others “pass you by,” this conversation will change how you think about your career. Because you’re not behind. You’re just in the middle.

Actor Type vs Brand: LIVE in The Green Room

Type gets you in the room. Brand gets you cast. In this LIVE episode of The Working Actor NYC Podcast, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood introduce their new format — featuring real-world field reports, live audience questions, and deep dives into essential acting career topics. This week, they tackle one of the most misunderstood concepts in the industry: type vs brand — and how understanding the difference can help actors move from co-star roles to series regular opportunities. Featuring insights from casting director sessions and practical tools actors can apply immediately.

Stop Treating Self Tapes Like A Chore

If self-tapes feel like punishment, there’s a good chance you’re approaching them completely wrong. Self-tapes didn’t kill auditions. They just changed the rules. Self-tape auditions are now the standard for film, TV, and many theatre projects — but many actors still treat self tapes like a chore instead of a creative opportunity. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood share practical self-tape audition tips, discuss how to approach acting self tapes creatively, and talk about what actually helps actors stand out on camera. Self-tapes have completely changed the way actors audition — and a lot of actors still treat them like a chore. In this episode of The Working Actor NYC, Benjamin Howes and Patrick Richwood unpack the mindset shift that can make self-taping not just tolerable… but actually creative and empowering. Yes, many actors miss the energy of being in the room with casting directors. But the self-tape era has also opened up new opportunities: more control over your performance, the ability to collaborate with your own community of readers, and a chance to approach the audition like a miniature piece of storytelling. We talk about: • Why self-tapes feel isolating — and why that might be a myth • How building a circle of readers can actually strengthen your acting community • Whether props help or hurt your audition • Why overproducing your self-tape can backfire • The difference between playing it safe and making specific choices • How to start thinking of self-tapes as a creative opportunity instead of a burden Because here’s the truth: the rules of the industry have changed. And the actors who adapt fastest are the ones who keep working. If you’re still treating self-tapes like something you have to get through, this conversation might help you start using them to your advantage.