Two Unemployed Actors

Acting Coach Episodes

110
June 18, 2026

The Biggest Audition Mistakes Actors Make & How to Fix Them with Peter Rasmussen| Ep 110

Two Unemployed Actors — Episode 110: Inside the Casting Room with Peter Rasmussen What happens when an Actor's formal training meets the raw reality of the casting room? In this episode, host Max Belmonte sits down with renowned Casting Director and Acting Coach Peter Rasmussen to bridge that exact gap. 📝 Episode Summary Peter brings a uniquely powerful dual perspective to the show. He began his journey as an Actor, graduating with an Acting degree in 1997, before transitioning behin...
101
July 10, 2023

How Daniel Craig & Austin Butler Prepare: Acting Secrets from Terry Knickerbocker - Ep 101

Unlock the secrets behind some of Hollywood’s most iconic performances in this deep-dive interview with legendary acting coach Terry Knickerbocker. In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max explores the craft, discipline, and mindset required to sustain a high-level career in the entertainment industry. The interview with acting coach Terry Knickerbocker highlights several foundational principles for building a sustainable and professional acting career. Here are the key takeaways...
100
March 13, 2023

From 20 Years in Corporate to Producing TV: 100 Episodes of Lessons Learned

Episode 100: The Milestone, the Memories, and the New Mission In this landmark 100th episode of Two Unemployed Actors, host Max Belmonte reflects on the journey from a 20-year corporate career to becoming a dedicated Actor and Producer. This isn't just a look back; it’s a strategic deep dive into what it takes to survive and thrive in the Australian screen industry. We revisit the highs, the lows (including a Subaru-induced Vespa accident), and the incredible insights shared by world-class...
99
Aug. 11, 2022

How to Stop Being a 'Struggling Actor' with Anthony Meindl - Ep 99

In this instalment of the Two Unemployed Actors podcast, host Max welcomes Anthony Meindle, an award-winning Writer, Director, and creativity expert! Celebrating the twenty-fifth anniversary of his global acting workshops, he discusses his latest book, Unstuck, which explores removing the psychological barriers that hinder artistic expression. He argues that traditional acting training has remained stagnant for decades, clinging to antiquated "analog" methods that no longer serve the modern, digital age. Meindle advocates for a shift toward presence and authenticity, urging performers to inhabit their true selves rather than performing for external validation. A central theme of the conversation is the concept of 'via negativa', or the "negative path." Inspired by Polish director Jerzy Grotowski, Anthony explains that growth comes not from adding new skills, but from identifying and disrupting the "blocks" that constrain an artist. He poignantly suggests that one's "kryptonite is …
95
June 8, 2022

Working with Peter Jackson & Jane Campion: Miranda Harcourt Interview Ep 95

🎬 Unlock the Secrets of World-Class Performance with Miranda Harcourt Ever wondered how stars like Nicole Kidman deliver such breathtaking, authentic performances? In this episode of Two Unemployed Actors, we go behind the scenes with legendary acting coach Miranda Harcourt. Miranda has worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood and collaborated with visionary directors like Jane Campion, Peter Jackson, and Taika Waititi. In this masterclass of a conversation, she reveals the exact techniques used to build instant chemistry on set, the importance of active listening, and how to find your "flow" under the pressure of a major production. In this high-impact episode, legendary acting coach Miranda Harcourt pulls back the curtain on the craft of elite performance. Known as the "secret weapon" for Hollywood’s elite, Harcourt shares the methodologies she uses to help stars like Nicole Kidman achieve the raw authenticity seen on screen.
41
June 18, 2020

What Directors REALLY Want from Actors (Audition Tips & Tricks) | Ep 41

Two Unemployed Actors | Episode 41: What Directors Want & Mastering the Audition In this episode, Max and Sam dive deep into the mechanics of the Director-Actor relationship and break down what it really takes to walk into an audition room with absolute confidence. From the high-stakes sets of premium television to the fast-paced world of commercial casting, the boys discuss how preparation creates the ultimate creative freedom. 📝 Episode Summary Max shares exclusive insights from a rec...
40
June 11, 2020

The Right Actor vs. The Best Actor: Audition Advice from Casting Directors | Ep 40

📝 Episode Summary After a quick fortnight break, Max and Sam are back in the studio (accompanied by some minor desk chaos courtesy of Frederick the sausage dog). This week, the guys dive into invaluable casting director insights, the reality of audition etiquette, and the deeply personal hurdles of breaking down emotional walls in your acting. 💡 Key Takeaways from this Episode The Right Actor vs. The Best Actor: Unpacking a crucial philosophy shared by Casting Director Kirsty McGregor. Ca...