Casting Confidential

This year marks a historic shift in the entertainment industry. For the first time, casting is being formally recognized at major awards including the Academy Awards and the Critics' Choice Awards.On this episode of Casting Confidential: The Round Table, we break down what that recognition actually means — and what it doesn’t. After 35 years of advocacy, casting directors are finally being acknowledged above the line. But why was the craft overlooked for so long? And why does it still so rarely get mentioned in speeches, press coverage, or theatrical award shows like the Tony Awards?The conversation dives into:Why directors often get credit for “finding” talentHow casting’s work begins long before cameras rollWhy the craft is essential yet often invisibleThe difference between creative collaboration and final decision-makingAnd how real industry recognition could shift moving forwardWe also reference the documentary Casting By, which chronicled the long road toward acknowledgment for casting professionals.If you’re serious about understanding how casting actually works, this one pulls back the curtain.Sponsor: Rafy AppRehearse, memorize, and self-tape anytime with Rafy, the app that scans your sides and lets you practice with realistic reader voices. With over 60 voices, a built-in teleprompter, multilingual support, and a script library called Playhouse, Rafy gives actors full control over their process.Visit rafy.app and use code CONFIDENTIAL15 for 15% off.Go Deeper on PATREONJoin the Casting Confidential community on Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and live Q&As designed specifically for actors navigating the industry.JOIN HEREFor more episodes and resources, visitcastingconfidential.com.SPONSORS:RAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL15JOIN THE CASTING CONFIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ON PATREON HERE:JOIN HERECREDITS:Host, Creator & ProducerRose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingROUNDTABLE PANELISTS:Kimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrmeCheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA@loudenkubin Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarusEditorMZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comOriginal MusicOrville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtworkAce Anderson@aceshotthatFOLLOW THE SHOW AND JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON SOCIALS:@castingconfidential@roserosencastingJoin our Patreon here!** Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

In this episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen and guest co host, acclaimed casting director Shayna Markowitz sit down with legendary actor Christine Ebersole for an honest, deeply insightful conversation about craft, longevity, and what really happens behind the casting process.Christine shares stories from her extraordinary career spanning Broadway, film, television, and cabaret. From Saturday Night Live and Tootsie to Amadeus, War Paint, and her latest film Is This Thing On, directed by Bradley Cooper. She opens up about navigating auditions at every stage of life, trusting instinct over industry noise, and why perseverance matters more than timing.Shayna offers a rare look at casting from the other side of the table, including how actors with long-established careers are cast, how Zoom auditions have changed access and connection, and why casting directors are always rooting for actors to succeed. The conversation also touches on the long-overdue recognition of casting as an Academy Award category and what that means for the future of the profession.This is a must-listen for actors seeking clarity, confidence, and truth about how careers are actually built—without mythology, without guesswork.Sponsor: Rafy AppRehearse, memorize, and self-tape anytime with Rafy, the app that scans your sides and lets you practice with realistic reader voices. With over 60 voices, a built-in teleprompter, multilingual support, and a script library called Playhouse, Rafy gives actors full control over their process. Visit rafy.app and use code CONFIDENTIAL15 for 15% off.Go Deeper on PatreonJoin the Casting Confidential community on Patreon for bonus episodes, extended conversations, and live Q&As designed specifically for actors navigating the industry.
patreon.com/castingconfidentialFor more episodes and resources, visit castingconfidential.com.
Hosted by Rose Rosen.SPONSORS:RAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL15JOIN THE CASTING CONFIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ON PATREON HERE:JOIN HERECREDITS: Host, Creator & ProducerRose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingCO HOSTShayna MarkowitzGUESTS:Christine Ebersolechristine.ebersoleofficialEditorMZ Studiosmzstudiosdallas.comOriginal MusicOrville WrightohyeahbeatsArtworkAce AndersonaceshotthatFOLLOW THE SHOW AND JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON SOCIALS:@castingconfidentialPatreon**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

In this powerful episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen, CSA, is joined by acclaimed casting director Kerry Barden (The Help, Winter's Bone, Dallas Buyers Club) and dynamic actor Amber Chardae Robinson (Palm Royale, Judas and the Black Messiah, LOOT). Together, they take a deep dive into the casting process for Palm Royale—a stylized period drama full of glamour and hidden grit.Kerry shares the meticulous process behind assembling the series' all-star cast and discusses the nuance of reading actors, casting with authenticity, and balancing tone in a heightened world. Amber offers a candid look into her experience portraying an undercover FBI agent in a world steeped in 1960s privilege, reflecting on the personal and political weight of her role.From actor vulnerability and the importance of energy in auditions to industryscams and the power of saying yes to the journey, this episode is filled withessential insights for working actors and industry professionals alike.Plus, don’t miss the exclusive Casting Confidential Feedback Session, whereAmber and a guest actor perform a brand-new original scene and receive livefeedback from Kerry.SPONSORS:RAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10MZ Studios Dallashttps://mzstudiosdallas.comJoin Our Membership here:https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-memberHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingCo Host:Kerry Barden@kerrybardencastingGuest:Amber Chardae Robinson@ambershardaeFeedback ActorLewa Greenwood@lewagreenwoodFollow the show and join our community on socials:@castingconfidentialHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingEditor:MZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comMusic:Orville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtwork:Ace Anderson@aceshotthat

In a powerful Season 3 finale, Rose Rosen along with her co host casting director Kimberly Skyrme, welcome the multi-talented Shiri Appleby (Roswell, Unreal) for an inspiring deep dive into her remarkable journey from child actor to acclaimed director. Shiri shares candid insights into heraudition experiences—including the game-changing moment that landed her Roswell—and reveals the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into directing.She discusses the evolution of casting, navigating self-tapes, and the importance of staying creatively fulfilled both on and off set. Plus, listeners are treated to a live feedback session with guest actor Alison Bauer in a dynamic scene read with Shiri.Sponsors:Casting Networks@castingnetworkshttps://castingnetworks.com/confidentialWright Positive Films@shemeka_wrighthttps://www.wrightpositive.comRAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10MZ Studios Dallashttps://mzstudiosdallas.comJoin Our Membership here:https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-memberHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingCo Host:Kimberly Skyrme@kimberlyskyrmeGuest:Shiri Appleby@shiriapplebyFollow the show and join our community on socials:@castingconfidentialHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingEditor:MZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comMusic:Orville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtwork:Ace Anderson@aceshotthatSides:StageMilk**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

In this bonus breakdown episode of Casting Confidential, Rose Rosen is joined by three powerhouse casting directors—Robin Carus (New York), Kimberly Skyrme (DC), and Cheryl Louden-Kubin (Atlanta)—to explore one of the industry's most enduring debates: typecasting. From its roots in the old studio system to its modern-day implications, the conversation unpacks when typecasting helps actors build careers and when it starts to hold them back.Together, they share insights on how to leverage your “type” strategically, how to prepare to break out of it, and why knowing your lane doesn’t mean staying in it.Plus, hear memorable anecdotes—including one about discovering the perfect cop on the side of the road—and practical advice on making your submissions stand out.Sponsors:Casting Networks@castingnetworkshttps://castingnetworks.com/confidentialRAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10MZ Studios Dallashttps://mzstudiosdallas.comFollow the show and join our community on socials:@castingconfidentialJoin Our Membership here:https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-memberHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingKimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Editor:MZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comMusic:Orville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtwork:Ace Anderson@aceshotthat**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

In this dynamic episode of Casting Confidential, host Rose Rosen, CSA, dives deep into the booming world of vertical filmmaking with breakout star TJ Wilk and Atlanta-based casting director Cheryl Louden-Kubin. TJ shares his unique journey from modeling and music to leading over 17 vertical films, racking up more than 250 million views across platforms. He discusses his audition process, mastering the emotional intimacy of vertical acting, and the evolving landscape of mobile-first storytelling. Cheryl offers insight into casting for this format, its surprising reach, and why it's here to stay.Plus, don’t miss our Casting Confidential Feedback Session, where one luckyactor reads live with TJ and receives real-time notes from our expert panel.Sponsors:Casting Networks@castingnetworkshttps://castingnetworks.com/confidentialWright Positive Films@shemeka_wrighthttps://www.wrightpositive.comRAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10MZ Studios Dallashttps://mzstudiosdallas.comFollow the show and join our community on socials:@castingconfidentialJoin Our Membership here:https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-memberHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingCo-Host:Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Guest:TJ Wilk@jwilkofficialEditor:MZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comMusic:Orville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtwork:Ace Anderson@aceshotthatSides:StageMilk**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

In this special bonus episode of Casting Confidential, Rose Rosen, CSA, divesinto the vital world of callbacks — the crucial second look that often determines who books the role. Joined by fellow casting professionals, Cheryl Louden-Kubin, Robin Carus and Kimberly Skyrme, the conversation highlights why callbacks matter just as much as the initial audition and how actors can prepare to stand out a second time.From the importance of replicating your audition look (yes, wear that pinksweater again!) to maintaining a positive, professional attitude, this episode is full of essential advice for navigating the callback process. You'll hear real stories — some inspiring, some cautionary — that underscore how callbacks are more than just a repeat performance; they're about building relationships and showcasing flexibility.Sponsors:Casting Networks@castingnetworkshttps://castingnetworks.com/confidentialRAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10MZ Studios Dallashttps://mzstudiosdallas.comFollow the show and join our community on socials:@castingconfidentialJoin Our Membership here:https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-memberHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingKimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Editor:MZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comMusic:Orville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtwork:Ace Anderson@aceshotthat**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.

Ever wondered what really happens after you hit “submit” on an audition tape? In this behind-the-scenes bonus drop, Rose Rosen is joined by three powerhouse casting directors—Robin Carus (New York), Kimberly Skyrme (DC), and Cheryl Louden-Kubin (Atlanta)—for a candid, coast-to-coast conversation on what goes down in a casting director’s inbox.From how tapes are reviewed and shared with producers, to the factors influencing callbacks (and why you might still be in the running even without a callback), this episode demystifies the audition pipeline. The panel also shares insights on labeling your footage, meeting submission deadlines, the impact of technology, and the importance of showing up consistently—even if you didn’t land the last role.Don’t miss this invaluable insider knowledge that could change how you approach every submission.Sponsors:Casting Networks@castingnetworkshttps://castingnetworks.com/confidentialRAFY APPhttps://rafy.app/Discount code: CONFIDENTIAL10MZ Studios Dallashttps://mzstudiosdallas.comFollow the show and join our community on socials:@castingconfidentialJoin Our Membership here:https://www.castingconfidential.com/become-a-memberHost, Creator and Producer:Rose Rosen, CSA@roserosencastingKimberly Skyrme, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kimberlyskyrme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cheryl Louden-Kubin, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@loudenkubin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Robin Carus, CSA ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@robincarus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Editor:MZ Studioshttps://mzstudiosdallas.comMusic:Orville Wright@ohyeahbeatsArtwork:Ace Anderson@aceshotthat**Opinions expressed in Casting Confidential podcast are the opinions of each individual and do not represent the opinions of any other group or entity. Nothing in this show should be interpreted as an offer of employment.