Ask The Agents
Ask The Agents with Chelsea Bonner - Icon Management
5.0from 6 ratings
- 13
- Episodes
- 6
- Ratings
- 2025
- First episode
About Ask The Agents
Ask The Agents is your inside guide to the modeling, acting, and content creation industries. If you want to navigate your career smarter, or you're just starting out and need expert guidance, this podcast is for you. Join Chelsea Bonner, CEO of Icon Management, as she breaks down industry myths, agency expectations, and social media strategy to help you succeed in the entertainment world. Learn how to get signed, build a strong portfolio, and make yourself stand out to clients and brands. Have questions? Drop them in the comments, or send us a DM and we’ll answer them! @iconmanagement
- Publisher
- Ask The Agents with Chelsea Bonner - Icon Management
- Category
- business
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 4 Mar 2025
- Latest episode
- 18 Jul 2025
Latest episodes
13 episodes in the feed.
18 Jul 2025
NSW's Big Budget Blunder: Why Studios Won’t Save Australia’s Screen Industry
CEO Chelsea Bonner analyzes the New South Wales government's budget allocation for film studios, arguing that it overlooks crucial production funding and the evolving digital landscape, in this episode.
18 Jul 2025
Top 10 Content Creation for 2025 Cheat Sheet: Insider Tips from an Agent's POV
Chelsea Bonner shares essential content creation strategies for digital creators in 2025, emphasizing platform algorithms, audience engagement, and authentic content, providing insights for personal brand growth.
25 Jun 2025
How to Build a Modelling Portfolio That Books Jobs and Beats AI
Chelsea Bonner interviews Jessica Gilbert about building a modeling portfolio that secures jobs and remains relevant amidst AI advancements, emphasizing strategic test shoots and a strong digital presence.
11 Jun 2025
How Models and Actors Can Future Proof Their Careers in the AI Era
Chelsea Bonner, CEO of ICON Management, advises models and actors on leveraging social media and personal branding to future-proof their careers amidst the rise of generative AI in this interview episode.
10 May 2025
The Industry Has Shifted: What All Models, Photographers & Creatives Need to Know in 2025
The fashion and entertainment industry is changing fast andif you're a working model, photographer, makeup artist, stylist, or creative, you're probably already feeling it. In this episode of Ask The Agents, we breakdown why jobs are drying up, how AI is disrupting campaigns, and what you can do to stay competitive in 2025 and beyond. We share real data, career-saving strategies, and advicefrom inside one of Australia’s top talent agencies. Whether you’re a freelance model, performer, content creator or part of a production crew this is your survival guide for staying booked, relevant, and creatively fulfilled. CEO Chelsea Bonner and Group Director Katherine Taylor dive into the reality of the performing and creative arts industry in 2025. From AI’s impact on modelling and content creation to rising insolvencies and tariffs across fashion and media. Who this episode is for: Working models, photographers, makeup artists, producers, stylists, art directors, actors, digital creators, casting agents, and anyone in the creative industries trying to navigate the new landscape. Episode Highlights: * Why fashion, beauty & e-commerce jobs are vanishing * How AI has replaced entry-level creatives & cataloguemodels * What real Australian brands are cutting and what they’restill paying for * Insider advice for models, photographers, stylists, andproducers * What clients look for in a saturated, shrinking market * How to use social media and digital content to rebuild yourbooking power * What “being competitive” really means in today’s climate * The rise of creator-led advertising and how to pivot yourskills * New income streams for photographers and creatives (print sales, Patreon, workshops) * Real talk on burnout, allyship, and how to stay focused. Resources: Vogue Business https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/how-australias-economic-slump-is-impacting-fashion News.com https://www.news.com.au/finance/business/retail/industry-is-on-its-knees-is-this-the-end-of-australian-fashion/news-story/59dce0e6a793cc7ee51571ea02136d23 Ragtrader https://www.ragtrader.com.au/news/inside-the-decline-of-australia-s-fashion-wholesale-market Australian Financial Review https://www.afr.com/life-and-luxury/fashion-and-style/fashion-industry-eyes-local-production-to-fight-temu-tariffs-squeeze-20250505-p5lwkl SBS News https://www.sbs.com.au/news/the-feed/article/its-been-a-bad-year-for-retail-is-the-aussie-mall-dead/lw2r9p3xr ABC News https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-01/the-demise-of-mid-range-fashion-rivers-millers/104876424 fashion industry 2025, AI in fashion photography, how tosurvive as a model in 2025, creative careers in crisis, future of modelling, AI replacing photographers, freelance artist strategies, creator economy tips, why fashion jobs are disappearing, photography industry changes 2025, advertising trends 2025, Australian models careers, how to get booked in 2025, Instagram, portfolio tips, influencer economy stats, how to stay relevant in fashion, creative freelancer survival guide, makeup artist jobs 2025, art director advice 2025, AI and creatives,
16 Apr 2025
Breaking Into Acting: Auditions, Agents, and Real Talk for Australian Actors
In this episode of Ask the Agents, we sit down with Sam Nolan, Head of the Acting Division at ICON Management. An industry veteran Sam has worked with top acting agencies in Australia and Los Angeles USA. Whether you're a trained actor, a model wanting to break into screen work, or just starting out, Sam shares expert insight into what casting directors actually want, how self-tapes get shortlisted, and what separates hobbyists from career actors. You'll learn how the acting industry works in Australia, why self-discipline and training matter, and the small things actors get wrong that can cost them the job. * Hot Tip - Label your self tapes correctly! From headshots to showreels, accents to attitude, thisepisode is your practical, no-fluff guide to surviving—and thriving—in the business of acting. This is for anyone looking to build a real career in TV, film, or theatre! 🎧 Listen now and get real about what it takes. Key Topics Covered How the Australian casting process works behind the scenes The real value of a good agent (and what they’re doing whenyou're not auditioning) Sam’s best tips for actors submitting self-tapes Common mistakes that drive agents and casting directors mad( hint… label your self tapes correctly!) Why it’s never too late to start an acting career What to post on social media as an actor The importance of being professional, coachable, andconsistent The types of jobs that can build long-term income for actors Resources mentioned: Showcast – Australia’s #1 casting resource for actors, agents, and casting professionals.🔗 https://showcast.com.au (https://showcast.com.au/)Casting Networks Australia – A global casting platform connecting talent with casting professionals.🔗 https://www.castingnetworks.com (https://www.castingnetworks.com/) ScreenHub Australia+10Altai Casting | Home+10Altai Casting | Home+10 (https://www.altaicasting.com/en-us/agents-tiers?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Casting.com – An all-in-one online casting system for industry professionals.🔗 https://casting.com (https://casting.com/) casting.com+2Casting.com Support+2mycastingnet.com+2 (https://support.castingapp.com/support/solutions/articles/5000885564-what-is-casting-com-?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Altai Casting – A bespoke casting platform facilitating collaboration between artists, agents, casting, and clients.🔗 https://www.altaicasting.com (https://www.altaicasting.com/) ICON Management – Australia’s leading 360-degree talent agency for models, actors, creators, and performers.🔗 https://www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au/) Instagram @iconmanagement Tik Tok @weareicon Management, acting career tips, self-tape guide, showreeltips, casting advice Australia, how to get signed as an actor, acting jobsAustralia, theatrical agent, TVC casting Australia, working actor Australia,performing arts career
2 Apr 2025
How to Become a Successful Content Creator in 2025: Tips for New Influencers from Industry Experts
Are you thinking of becoming a content creator or influencer but don’t know where to start? In this episode of Ask the Agents, listen to Rebecca Egan the Head of Creators at ICON Management, as she breaks down exactly how to build a sustainable and successful career in content creation in 2025. Rebecca shares her personal journey — from intern to leading one of the top creator divisions in Australia — and offers practical, no-fluff advice for anyone who wants to grow an online presence, land brand deals, and build a loyal audience from scratch. Whether you're a complete beginner or trying to level up your creator game, this episode covers: • How to find your niche and sub-niche (and why it’s the secret to growth) • Why consistency and authenticity matter more than aesthetics • How to grow your Instagram or TikTok using the latest 2025 strategies • Tips for creating high-quality content without expensive gear • How to approach brands and build a media kit that gets noticed • What the Instagram algorithm wants and how to work with it • Why engagement rate matters more than follower count • When to consider getting management as a creator • How to start earning passive income as a micro-influencer Perfect For: Aspiring content creators and influencers Creators looking to grow on Instagram or TikTok in 2025: Influencer marketing newbies Anyone curious about how to make money online through content Creators stuck at a plateau and ready to level up! Resources Mentioned: Instagram: https://creators.instagram.com/blog/best-practices-for-creators TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/creator-academy/en/articles/get-started YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/intl/en_uk/creators/how-things-work/policies-guidelines/ Snap Chat: https://creators.snap.com/create Canva (for media kits) https://www.canva.com/media-kits/templates/ Happy listening! www.iconmanagement.com.au Instagram @iconmanagement Tik Tok @weareicon content creator, influencer tips for beginners, how to getbrand deals, growing on Instagram 2025, best way to start as an influencer,build a creator brand from scratch, passive income for creators, contentcreation tips and tricks, social media growth hacks, working with influencermanagers
14 Mar 2025
Talent Contracts Explained: Agency Commissions, Tax Deductions & Career Growth
In this episode of Ask the Agents, Chelsea Bonner breaksdown the reality of talent contracts for models, actors, influencers, content creators, and performing artists. She explains why the ATO classifies talent as independent contractors, what this means for tax deductions and business structure, and how to navigate agency relationships for long-term success. Learn why agency commissions are an investment, not a loss, how agency service fees (ASF) work, and the key clauses you must understand before signing a contract. The discussion also tackles career persistence, industry misconceptions, and setting yourself up for financial success in the entertainment industry. Key Takeaways * Agencies don’t hire talent—they find work for them. * Commission is an investment in your career, not a loss. * Agency commissions & work-related expenses are tax-deductible. * Agency service fees (ASF) cover essential operational costs. * Contracts cannot be terminated at will—valid reasons apply. * Strong communication with your agent leads to more opportunities. * Persistence separates successful talent from the rest. * Career progression involves strategic long-term effort. * Think like a small business owner! ATO Resources for Tax Deductions https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/guides-for-occupations-and-industries/l-q/performing-artists-income-and-work-related-deductions (https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/guides-for-occupations-and-industries/l-q/performing-artists-income-and-work-related-deductions) https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/guides-for-occupations-and-industries/l-q/performing-artists-income-and-work-related-deductions/deductions-for-work-expenses?=redirected_performingartist#Deductionsforworkexpenses (https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/guides-for-occupations-and-industries/l-q/performing-artists-income-and-work-related-deductions/deductions-for-work-expenses?=redirected_performingartist#Deductionsforworkexpenses) Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Understanding Talent Contracts & Industry Realities 02:54 – The Role of Agencies, Commissions & Business Structure 06:10 – How Taxes & Deductions Work for Independent Talent 08:53 – Why Agency Service Fees (ASF) Exist & What They Cover 11:58 – How Contracts Work & What You Need to Know 14:50 – Managing Expectations & Communicating With Your Agent 18:06 – The Role of Persistence in a Long-Term Entertainment Career 20:52 – Career Progression: How to Keep Growing in the Industry 24:07 – Final Advice for Long-Term Success in the Creative Industry 🌎 Website: www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au) 📸 Instagram: @iconmanagement (https://www.instagram.com/iconmanagement) 🎥 TikTok: @weareicon 📍 LinkedIn: Icon Management AU (https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-management-au/) talent contracts, agency commissions, tax deductions forperformers, agency service fees (ASF), career growth in entertainment,independent contractor tax, performing arts business, creative industryfinances, modelling agency contracts, acting contracts, influencer management,content creator business strategy, how to work with an agent, careerprogression for models, actors, and creators, managing finances as a performer,self-employed tax deductions, entertainment industry insights, communicationwith agents, freelance talent management
8 Mar 2025
How to Get Signed by a Top Modelling Agency: Insider Tips From Industry Expert
Do you dream of becoming a top model but don’t know how to get signed by a modelling agency? This episode is packed with insider advice from top industry experts to help you take the right steps and avoid common mistakes. Chelsea Bonner, Founder & CEO of Icon Management, breaks down exactly what agencies look for, the best ways to submit your application, and how to stand out in a competitive industry. In this episode, we cover: • How to get signed by a modelling agency and avoid common mistakes • Understanding different modelling categories and where you fit • The science of being photogenic and how to improve your connection with the camera • Agency submission tips and what agencies actually look for • The role of social media in building a sustainable modelling career • Why good lighting, clean backgrounds, and high-quality digitals matter in your portfolio • The difference between freelance modelling and agency representation • Why adaptability and professionalism are key to success 🌎 Website: www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au) 📸 Instagram: @iconmanagement (https://www.instagram.com/iconmanagement) 🎥 TikTok: @weareicon 📍 LinkedIn: Icon Management AU (https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-management-au/) Have questions? Drop a comment or DM us on @iconmanagement we might answer it in a future episode! Follow Ask The Agents for weekly expert insights into the modelling industry. modeling agencies, how to get signed, modeling contracts,how to submit to agencies, what agencies look for, modeling career tips.
4 Mar 2025
Do You Need a Modelling Portfolio? What Top Agencies Really Look For !
Do you really need a professional modelling portfolio to get signed? Before you spend thousands on a photoshoot, listen to this episode! Chelsea Bonner, Founder & CEO of Icon Management, shares insider knowledge from top modelling agencies about what actually matters when applying. In this episode, we cover: • Do agencies require a professional portfolio before signing you? • How to create a strong submission without spending a fortune. • What top agencies look for in portfolio photos. • Portfolio scams to avoid—red flags for aspiring models & parents. • The role of social media in getting scouted. Avoid costly mistakes & learn what really matters in a modelling portfolio. 🌎 Website: www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au) 📸 Instagram: @iconmanagement (https://www.instagram.com/iconmanagement) 🎥 TikTok: @weareicon 📍 LinkedIn: Icon Management AU (https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-management-au/) Follow Ask The Agents for weekly industry insights. Modeling, modeling portfolio, agency representation, photography, casting, headshots, career advice, creative industry, self-promotion, portfolio tips, getting signed, model submissions, fashion industry.
4 Mar 2025
Do You Really Need an Agent? The Truth About Representation in Modelling, Acting, and Creators
In this episode of Ask the Agents, Chelsea Bonner breaks down the real role of agents in the modelling, acting, and content creation industries. She explores whether it’s possible to succeed without representation, the financial realities behind agency commissions, and the key benefits of having an agent in your corner. Chelsea explains how agents secure jobs, manage career opportunities, and invest in their talent’s success. She also breaks down the commission structure, the partnership dynamic between talent and agents, and what it takes to navigate an independent career successfully. Key insights include: • What agents actually do and why they matter • Can you succeed without an agent? Understanding the freelance route • How agencies make money – no upfront fees, just commission-based earnings • The agency’s investment in talent and why commitment matters • How models, actors, and creators can take charge of their careers if they choose to go solo • Why representation gives talent a competitive advantage in castings and bookings • The business skills required for independent success • Diversity in talent representation – why some agencies value it more than others This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the pros and cons of agency representation and how to navigate the industry with or without one. 🌎 Website: www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au) 📸 Instagram: @iconmanagement (https://www.instagram.com/iconmanagement) 🎥 TikTok: @weareicon 📍 LinkedIn: Icon Management AU (https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-management-au/) Modeling, modeling agency, talent agency, career advice, representation, casting, freelance modeling, business skills, agent commission, getting signed as a model, modeling industry insights, agency vs. freelance, fashion career.
4 Mar 2025
Breaking Into Modelling, Acting & Content Creation: What Top Agencies Want in 2025
Want to break into modelling, acting, or content creation? In this episode of Ask the Agents, Chelsea Bonner, Founder and CEO of Icon Management, reveals exactly what top agencies and brands are looking for in 2025. She shares expert insights on career paths, how AI is reshaping the industry, and why social media is now a non-negotiable tool for success. Chelsea breaks down the realities of the industry, from the competitiveness of agency submissions to the rise of freelancing and digital marketing. She also explains how content creators can monetise their platforms and what it really takes to stand out in today’s fast-changing landscape. Key Takeaways: • What top modelling and acting agencies, as well as brands, look for in new talent • The biggest industry shifts in 2025 and how to stay ahead • Why social media is crucial for career longevity in all creative fields • The truth about earning potential in commercial print vs. high fashion • Why freelancing requires strong business and self-marketing skills • AI’s growing role in casting, bookings, and influencer marketing • How content creation can become a sustainable income stream • Why networking and agency representation are still key to success • The decline of traditional media and rise of digital marketing • The importance of building a strong personal brand in entertainment and social media If you’re serious about making it as a model, actor, or influencer, this episode is packed with must-know insights! 🌎 Website: www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au) 📸 Instagram: @iconmanagement (https://www.instagram.com/iconmanagement) 🎥 TikTok: @weareicon 📍 LinkedIn: Icon Management AU (https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-management-au/) Modeling, acting, social media for performers, AI in entertainment, career advice, industry insights, freelance modeling, agency representation, content creation, digital marketing, becoming a model, getting started as an actor, breaking into the industry.
4 Mar 2025
Welcome to Ask The Agents! Modelling, Acting & Content Creation
What does it really take to succeed in modelling, acting, or content creation? If you're navigating the fashion, entertainment, or digital industries, this podcast gives you insider knowledge on building a thriving career. I’m Chelsea Bonner, Founder & CEO of Icon Management, and I’ve spent over 20 years in talent management, modelling, acting, and influencer marketing. I’ve seen firsthand what works, what doesn’t, and the hard truths of making it in the entertainment industry. This podcast is where I share unfiltered insights, expert advice, and real talk to help you make smart career decisions. Each week, we’ll break down industry myths, contract red flags, agency commissions, tax deductions, personal branding, social media growth, and financial success strategies for models, actors, influencers, and content creators. Plus, you’ll hear from agents, casting directors, brand experts, and top industry professionals who will help you stay ahead of the game. In this episode: What this podcast is about and how it will help your career My 20+ years of experience in talent management What to expect this season – agents, managers, and industry experts Why you should subscribe if you want to book more jobs, grow your brand, and build a sustainable career A candid, real-world breakdown of how the entertainment industry really works 🌎 Website: www.iconmanagement.com.au (https://www.iconmanagement.com.au) 📸 Instagram: @iconmanagement (https://www.instagram.com/iconmanagement) 🎥 TikTok: @weareicon 📍 LinkedIn: Icon Management AU (https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-management-au/) talent contracts, agency commissions, tax deductions for performers, agency service fees (ASF), career growth in entertainment, independent contractor tax, performing arts business, creative industry finances, modelling agency contracts, acting contracts, influencer management, content creator business strategy, how to work with an agent, career progression for models, actors, and creators, managing finances as a performer, self-employed tax deductions, entertainment industry insights, communication with agents, freelance talent management
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Podcast Authority Score: 19 / 100
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