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Martin Bentsen

Struggling to book your first speaking role in a network-level production?

If so, this podcast is for you. You'll learn how to find and sign with great agents, how to start getting access to high-quality auditions, and how to book major union speaking roles.

Each episode addresses specific challenges faced by aspiring screen actors, including:

- What casting directors are really looking for in screen actors.
- How to find and impress legit, high-level agents.
- How to build strong industry connections (even if you don't know anyone yet).

New episodes are released Mondays and Thursdays, each filled with tactical advice to help you work through different challenges. Host Martin Bentsen has helped over 6000 actors since 2009, and has been featured in Backstage, Casting Networks, NYU Tisch, and more

Ready to dive in? Start by listening to fan-favorite Episode #14: "Where to Find Legit Auditions (Without an Agent)."

The Actor's Career Compass

Are you trying too hard in your auditions - without even realizing it?

Many actors unknowingly aim for performances that actually hurt their chances of getting cast. 

If you’ve ever tried to fully transform into a character and still didn’t book the role, you might be falling into a trap that’s way more common than you think.

In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, you'll learn why “Level 5” performances - while flashy - often come off as fake, and why Level 4 is the true sweet spot that gets you noticed by casting directors.

Here’s what you’ll get out of this episode:

 • The simple 5-level acting scale that shows exactly where your performances land - and how to improve.
 • The hidden reason why trying to “be someone else” usually backfires in auditions.
 • How to craft grounded, powerful performances that make casting directors say, 
“This actor just gets it.”

Want to stop overthinking and start booking more roles? Press play and find out what level to aim for in your next audition.

Contact Info:

 • Email: 
martin@cityheadshots.com • Website: 
https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 197: The BIG Mistake to Avoid in Self-Tapes & Acting Auditions

Should You Add Extra Lines to a One-Line Audition? Here’s What Casting Directors Really Think

Have you ever wondered if adding more lines to a one-line audition makes you stand out - or stand out in the wrong way?

In today’s episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, we talk about the real reason casting directors give you just one line - and how to handle it like a pro.

If you’ve ever worried that a short script limits your chance to shine, this episode clears up the confusion and helps you make the most of it.

Here’s what you’ll take away from today’s episode:

 • A surprising reason going 
off-script • can backfire and what it signals to casting directors
 • Simple ways to add depth to your performance without adding words
 • The subtle performance choices that can instantly show you're a skilled actor - even in one line

Play this episode now to learn how to book small roles that lead to big opportunities - without going off-script.

Contact Info:

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 196: How to Do Single-Line Acting Auditions Properly

Are your acting submissions getting ignored - or is there a bigger problem you’re missing?

If you're submitting constantly but rarely booking, it's not bad luck - it's a numbers game. And most actors have no clue what their numbers are.

In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, you’ll learn how tracking just three key metrics can uncover what’s really holding you back from landing roles.

Here’s what you’ll take away:

 • The one number more important than “working harder” in your acting career
 • The bare minimum audition and booking rates every actor should be hitting
 • How to increase your bookings without submitting more or burning out

Want to finally stop guessing and start booking? Press play now to take control of your acting career.

Contact Info:

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com

Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com

Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 195: 3 Numbers You MUST Track To Boost Auditions & Book More Acting Roles

Want to Book More Acting Work Without Moving? Here’s the Secret.

What if you could double or even triple your audition opportunities - without relocating?

In this episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, Martin Bentsen reveals how listing yourself as a local hire can open doors in multiple acting markets - no moving van required.

If you’re struggling to get seen or stuck competing in just one major city, this episode will show you a smarter, more flexible way forward.

You’ll discover:

 • How to 
legitimately • position yourself as a local hire in multiple cities
 • The exact steps to update your casting profiles to boost visibility
 • What to prepare so you can say “yes” the moment an audition or booking comes your way

Hit play now to learn how actors are landing roles faster - just by shifting how they list themselves on casting sites.

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 194: How to Use "Local Hire" Status to Unlock Hidden Acting Opportunities Nationwide

Do your acting auditions feel solid... but still forgettable?

In today’s episode, Martin breaks down what separates a technically “good” audition from one that actually moves casting directors to take action.

If you’ve ever felt like your performance is polished but missing that something special, this is for you.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

 • The one shift that instantly makes your acting feel real and unforgettable
 • Why bold acting choices get callbacks - even if they miss the mark
 • What most actors don’t realize they’re doing that kills emotion in their performances

Want casting directors to feel something when they watch your auditions? Press play now and learn how to start showing up at Level 4.

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 193: Stop Playing It Safe: Acting Auditions That Give Casting Directors Goosebumps

Should You Combine Your Slate and Audition in One File? Here’s the Right Way to Do It

Are you making this common self-tape mistake that could get you skipped by casting?

Many actors aren’t sure whether to upload their slate and audition scene in one video - or keep them separate. And doing it wrong could make casting’s job harder or even break their rules.

In this episode, you'll finally learn the clear answer so you always know what to do.

You’ll discover:

 • The one situation where combining your slate and scene is a must
 • What most casting directors 
actually • prefer in your submissions
 • A simple labeling trick that makes you look like a total pro

Want to stop second-guessing your self-tape uploads? Hit play now to make sure you’re doing it right - every single time.

Contact Info

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 192: How to Format Acting Self-Tapes So You Don’t Get Skipped Over

What if one connection could change your entire acting career?

Too many actors try to “go it alone” and end up spinning their wheels. 

But the right mentor can help you skip years of trial and error and guide you toward the roles and opportunities you’ve been chasing.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

 • Why mentors do far more than just give advice - and how they can open doors you didn’t even know existed
 • A simple, no-pressure way to reach out, even if you feel brand new in the industry
 • How to grow a mentor relationship into a lasting partnership that supports you through every season of your career

Press play now to learn how one mentor could help you find clarity, confidence, and faster success in your acting journey.

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 191: How a Mentor Can Help Land SAG-AFTRA Roles and Level Up Your Acting Game

Can One Booked Role Help You Land a Great Agent?

Did you know a single acting job you booked on your own could be the key to getting signed by a legit agent?

Most actors wait to get discovered - but this episode flips the script.

If you've recently booked a solid project, you're holding a golden opportunity to fast-track your representation… if you know how to use it right.

Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:

 • A clever negotiation trick actors are using to get agent meetings - even without industry connections
 • The hidden timing that makes this move work (and when it backfires)
 • A ready-to-send email that could lead directly to your next big agent relationship

Press play now to learn the easiest way to turn your booked job into a serious career move.

Contact Martin:

Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 190: How to Use a Booked Acting Role to Get SAG-AFTRA Agent Meetings Fast

Is Your Agent Playing Both Sides? Here's What You Need to Know

Could your agent be getting paid twice - once by you, and once by the studio - without telling you?

Some agents “double dip,” taking a cut from both the actor and the production company for the same job. That can lead to conflicts of interest, shady behavior, and even break union rules. 

Knowing how to spot this tactic early can save you money and stress - and help you find reps who truly have your back.

In this episode, you'll discover:

 • How to tell if your agent might be loyal to the studio instead of you
 • What to look for in your contract before signing anything
 • The one simple question that reveals how your agent really gets paid

Play this episode now to learn how to protect yourself and keep your career in trustworthy hands.

Contact Info:

 • Email: 
martin@cityheadshots.com • Website: 
https://www.martinbentsen.com

Additional Resources:

 • Headshots: 
https://www.cityheadshots.com • Shoot Footage for Your Reel: 
https://www.actorscreenershoot.com • Edit Footage Into a Reel: 
https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

This show dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 189: The Hidden Agent Practice That Could Sabotage Your Acting Career - Double Dipping

Are your “special skills” secretly holding you back from booking roles?

Many actors proudly list talents like stage combat or dance on their resumes - but if casting directors can't see it, it might as well not exist.

In today’s episode of The Actor’s Career Compass, we reveal how to turn your skills into visual proof that casting teams trust.

Discover why your most impressive skills need to be seen, not written, if you want them to help you land roles.

Here’s what you’ll get from this episode:

1. The one mistake actors make that makes their resume skills meaningless

2. A list of powerful, role-landing skills that must be filmed

3. Simple ways to create professional-looking clips using just your self-tape setup

Press play now and start turning your skills into footage that gets attention.

Contact Info and Resources

Martin's Email: martin@cityheadshots.com

Martin's Website: https://www.martinbentsen.com

Headshots: https://www.cityheadshots.com

Shoot Footage for Your Reel: https://www.actorscreenershoot.com

Edit Footage Into a Reel: https://www.demoreelsnyc.com

 

This podcast dives deep into the world of acting in film, exploring the journey of movie acting with stories, building confidence among aspiring actors, navigating auditions and productions, and offering insights from acting agents, coaches, and the challenges of becoming SAG-AFTRA eligible to advance your acting career, skills, and landing roles.

Ep. 190: How to Use a Booked Acting Role to Get SAG-AFTRA Agent Meetings Fast

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