Episodes
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This week's industry guest is Meg McGuire, a Toronto-based talent agent who transitioned from stage management and acting to representing some of Canada's top comedic talents. Learn about her insights into the industry, managing comedians, and advice for actors navigating their careers.
In this episode:
Meg's unique path to becoming a talent agentThe skills she applied from stage management and theater to her role as an agentHow to effectively communicate with your agent for better opportunitiesThe challenges and rewards of working with comedians versus dramatic actorsTips for actors on preparing self-tapes and maintaining motivationNavigating career changes and the importance of mentorship and ongoing learningThe importance of love for the craft over fame in acting careersTimestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Meg McGuire, talent agent at Baxter Agency
02:06 - Meg's journey from community theater to agency work
03:32 - Transition from stage management to talent representation
08:01 - Skills from stage management that help in talent agency work
10:48 - A typical day in the life of a talent agent
13:30 - How actors can support their agents through communication
15:07 - The nuances of working with comedians and comedy acting
17:07 - The skills inherent in comedy and how actors can hone them
19:02 - The impact of live energy versus self-tapes in comedy
22:24 - The emotional highs and lows of talent management
23:02 - Advice for actors entering the industry later in life
24:53 - The role of patience, persistence, and understanding industry dynamics
25:11 - When and why actors might consider changing agents
28:49 - Building long-term relationships with agents
31:55 - Memorable moments and success stories in Meg’s career
33:07 - Upcoming projects and personal milestones
35:03 - Final words of wisdom for aspiring actors
Resources & Links:
The Baxter AgencySecond CityToronto's Comedy SceneHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special Second Act Actors: Where Are They Now series, host Dr. Janet McMordie revisits past guests to see how their journeys have evolved since their original episodes. From career pivots and creative breakthroughs to pauses, setbacks, and unexpected turns, these conversations explore what a “second act” really looks like over time.
This series shines a light on resilience, reinvention, and the realities of building a creative life at any age. Our story didn't end when the episode did.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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In this special Second Act Actors: Where Are They Now series, host Dr. Janet McMordie revisits past guests to see how their journeys have evolved since their original episodes. From career pivots and creative breakthroughs to pauses, setbacks, and unexpected turns, these conversations explore what a “second act” really looks like over time.
This series shines a light on resilience, reinvention, and the realities of building a creative life at any age. Our story didn't end when the episode did.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special Second Act Actors: Where Are They Now series, host Dr. Janet McMordie revisits past guests to see how their journeys have evolved since their original episodes. From career pivots and creative breakthroughs to pauses, setbacks, and unexpected turns, these conversations explore what a “second act” really looks like over time.
This series shines a light on resilience, reinvention, and the realities of building a creative life at any age. Our story didn't end when the episode did.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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She's BAAAAAAACK!!!
Settle in, get yourself a cup of tea, and enjoy the longest episode of Second Act Actors to date. Kathleen Munroe has an amazing story to tell and this episode is everything you need to hear in this dumpster fire world.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special Second Act Actors: Where Are They Now series, host Dr. Janet McMordie revisits past guests to see how their journeys have evolved since their original episodes. From career pivots and creative breakthroughs to pauses, setbacks, and unexpected turns, these conversations explore what a “second act” really looks like over time.
This series shines a light on resilience, reinvention, and the realities of building a creative life at any age. Our story didn't end when the episode did.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special Second Act Actors: Where Are They Now series, host Dr. Janet McMordie revisits past guests to see how their journeys have evolved since their original episodes. From career pivots and creative breakthroughs to pauses, setbacks, and unexpected turns, these conversations explore what a “second act” really looks like over time.
This series shines a light on resilience, reinvention, and the realities of building a creative life at any age. Our story didn't end when the episode did.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special Second Act Actors: Where Are They Now series, host Dr. Janet McMordie revisits past guests to see how their journeys have evolved since their original episodes. From career pivots and creative breakthroughs to pauses, setbacks, and unexpected turns, these conversations explore what a “second act” really looks like over time.
This series shines a light on resilience, reinvention, and the realities of building a creative life at any age. Our story didn't end when the episode did.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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I am so thrilled to bring you to recording of my second live charity episode! This episode was also a celebration of 200 episodes of Second Act Actors!!
Three incredible actors joined me: Kathleen Munroe, Jo Vannicola, and Tricia Black! We chat about their careers, challenges, and triumphs. Their stories reveal the complexities of transforming a passion for acting into a sustainable career and highlight the power of resilience, personal growth, and the support of a creative community.
This was a charity fundraiser for The Get Real Movement, a Canadian non-profit focused on combatting 2SLGBTQ+ discrimination, racism, and bullying in schools, summer camps, and workplaces.
If you would like to donate to our fundraiser, click here!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Eric Johnson discusses his unique journey into acting, sharing personal stories and insights about the industry. He emphasizes the importance of staying curious, the collaborative nature of acting, and the continuous learning process. Host Janet McMordie also provides a unique perspective by drawing parallels between acting and her medical career, highlighting the shared need for ongoing education and passion.
TakeawaysStay curious and embrace continuous learning.Collaboration is key in the acting industry.Acting is a journey, not a destination.Empathy is crucial for understanding characters.It's never too late to pursue your passion.The creative process is ever-evolving.Find joy in the process, not just the outcome.Personal growth enhances professional performance.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this engaging conversation, Janet McMordie and Jen Viens explore the multifaceted world of the entertainment industry, touching on themes of mentorship, the evolving role of intimacy coordinators, and the challenges faced by actors and producers alike. Jen shares her journey from acting to producing and intimacy coordination, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and respectful environments on set. The discussion highlights the need for open communication, the realities of success, and the significance of community support in navigating a career in the arts.
Takeaways
Intimacy coordinators play a crucial role in ensuring performer safety.Mentorship is vital for navigating the complexities of the industry.There are no clear paths in creative careers, making it challenging.Success stories often overshadow the hard work behind the scenes.The role of intimacy coordinators is evolving and becoming more recognized.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, Kelsey Lacombe shares her journey from being a musical theater performer to physiotherapist and now blending the two! She discusses her experiences at Stratford, the challenges and joys of balancing her dual careers, and the personal sacrifices involved in the performing arts. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of not limiting oneself, pursuing passions, and the value of reaching out to others for guidance and support. Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and the fulfillment of long-held dreams.
Takeaways
Don't limit yourself; pursue what you want.Challenge conventional wisdom about career paths.Embrace opportunities that come your way.Resilience is key to overcoming challenges.Motivation comes from within; find your drive.Bio
Kelsey Lacombe is a Physiotherapist and professional musical theatre performer with a passion for helping people recover from injury, build strength, and return to the activities they love with confidence.
She holds a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University and a Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance from Sheridan College. Her clinical experience includes seeing a range of musculoskeletal injuries, concussion management, paediatrics, and acute care, with a special interest in working with dancers and performing artists. She is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique.
Kelsey has trained in all styles of dance and brings over a decade of performance experience across Canada, including credits with The Stratford Festival, The Charlottetown Festival, Rainbow Stage, Theatre Calgary, The Citadel, Drayton Entertainment, and more. Her deep understanding of the physical demands placed on dancers allows her to provide care that is both evidence-based and specifically tailored to the needs of performing artists. Kelsey stays current with the latest research to deliver client-centred treatment that helps artists remain stage ready throughout their careers.
Kelsey is currently practicing and accepting new patients at Meadowlands Physiotherapy in Ancaster.
Instagram handle: @dancephysio.kelsey.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this engaging conversation, Janet McMordie and Kelly Michael Stewart discuss Kelly's journey into the film industry, and the intricacies of programming a film festival. They discuss the unique appeal of horror films, the importance of community in film festivals, and provide valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. Kelly shares insights on balancing multiple roles in the film industry, creating memorable festival experiences, and the impact of the Blood in the Snow festival. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of the festival and final thoughts for filmmakers.
Takeaways
Programming a film festival requires collaboration and diverse perspectives.Horror films can serve as a reflection of societal issues.Filmmakers should attend festivals to network and learn from others.Balancing multiple roles in the film industry is challenging but rewarding.Creating memorable experiences for filmmakers is a priority for festival directors.Community support is vital for indie filmmakers and festivals.Openness to new opportunities can lead to unexpected career paths.[email protected] | 416-995-5275
https://linktr.ee/BITSFILMFEST
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, host Janet McMordie chats with Sophie Engelhardt shares her journey from being a medical doctor to pursuing a career in acting, discussing the challenges and joys of transitioning between these two worlds. She emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and staying true to oneself, even when it means making unconventional choices.
TakeawaysDo the things that make absolutely no sense.There's only one who can be responsible for my life and that's youCall your parents, call your loved ones, do the things that make you feel proud of yourself and make yourself happy.Stay open, don't judge yourself for changing your mind.It's okay to feel multiple emotions at once.Choosing yourself is not selfish, it's necessary.Instagram TikTok Youtube:
@doc.sophiengelhardt
Website
www.theplantbasedpathologist.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Adam Lupis shares his journey from being a barber to pursuing a career in acting. He discusses the challenges he faced, the transition during COVID, and his passion for storytelling. Adam emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and offers advice for aspiring actors.
Takeaways:
-Everything great comes with sacrifices.
-Acting is about exploring human behavior.
-If you have the drive, don't let go of it.
-Be yourself to bring out your best.
-Create your own work to propel forward.
https://www.youtube.com/c/adamlupis
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this engaging conversation, Ashwyn Singh shares his journey from a computer scientist to a stand-up comedian, discussing the cultural shocks he faced after moving to Canada, the challenges of the comedy industry, and the importance of artistic freedom. He reflects on his experiences with open mics, the impact of his background in computer science on his comedy, and offers valuable advice for aspiring comedians. The discussion also touches on memorable moments in his career and his upcoming projects, emphasizing the pursuit of authenticity in art.
Takeaways
Comedy allows for a unique form of freedom of expression.Artistic freedom is a pursuit that requires self-awareness and courage.Memorable moments in comedy often come from breaking societal norms.Website: https://www.ashwyn.me/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this engaging conversation, Melissa Millett shares her journey into the world of animal training, highlighting the passion that drives her work. She discusses the importance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of the film industry, the role of animal coordinators, and the preparation required for animals on set. Melissa offers valuable advice for actors working with animals, emphasizing the need to understand animal behavior and the unique challenges presented by different species. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI in film, memorable moments from her career, and her excitement for future projects, all while advocating for the respectful treatment of animals in the industry.
Takeaways
The passion for animal training is key to success in the industry.Navigating the film industry can be confusing without proper mentorship.Mentorship is crucial for understanding the complexities of working on set.Animal coordinators play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of animals on set.Preparation and training are essential for animals to perform well in film.Actors should follow the guidance of animal trainers to ensure safety and effectiveness.Interacting with animals on set requires understanding their behavior and needs.https://www.ultimutts.ca/
https://indogswetrust.ca/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this engaging conversation, Janet McMordie and Cindy-Ann Boisson explore Cindy-Ann's journey into stand-up comedy and the importance of storytelling and humor in bridging personal pain. Cindy-Ann shares her experiences from her first performance to building a career in comedy, emphasizing the significance of self-love and passion over monetary gain. The discussion highlights the challenges and joys of being a comedian, along with valuable advice for aspiring artists.
Takeaways
Stand-up comedy allows for a unique connection between pain and humor.The importance of self-love in pursuing creative endeavors.Navigating the comedy scene requires resilience and adaptability.Storytelling in stand-up is different from traditional storytelling.Finding humor in painful experiences can be therapeutic.Cindy-Ann's website
Get tickets for Cindy-Ann's show on Oct 1st at Comedy Bar Danforth
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this conversation, Anthony Chin-Quee: Writer & Doctor shares his transformative journey from a medical career to becoming a television writer. He discusses the emotional challenges faced during medical training, the importance of storytelling, and how he found his passion in writing. Tony reflects on his experiences in the Grey's Anatomy writing room, the cultural shifts in medicine, and the significance of humor in coping with the stresses of the medical profession. He offers advice for those looking to transition into creative fields and emphasizes the importance of loving what you do.
Takeaways
Storytelling can be a powerful tool for processing experiences in medicine.Finding emotional resilience is key to thriving in creative fields.It's important to make time for creative pursuits in daily life.Loving what you do is essential for personal fulfillment.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this engaging conversation, Madison Caan shares her journey from a young performer to athlete to actor and producer. She discusses her experiences in LA and New York, the importance of community in Toronto, and her unique approach to acting. Madison emphasizes the value of hard work, genuine connections, and the need for artists to explore various creative avenues beyond acting. Her insights provide valuable advice for aspiring actors and highlight the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.
TAKEAWAYS:
Success is defined by the ability to make choices, not having them made for you.Athletes possess qualities like discipline, work ethic, and resilience that are valuable in any career.The acting industry now requires versatility; being just an actor is no longer sustainable.Genuine connections in the industry are crucial; reach out with authenticity and purpose.Embrace vulnerability in art; it's a delicate process that connects deeply with audiences.Learn the rules of the industry to creatively break them and find your unique voice.Physicality and authenticity in performance can enhance the portrayal of characters.Building a supportive community is essential for creative growth and success.https://www.screaminggoatfilms.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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