OPENING DOORS: The Young Actor Workspace Podcast

About OPENING DOORS: The Young Actor Workspace Podcast

Young performers and those who support their dreams face unique challenges in today’s evolving entertainment industry. Join Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman, renowned acting coaches and owners of L.A.’s celebrated Young Actor Workspace, as they interview top artists and industry professionals, answer your questions, and share insights that will help you open doors and grow your career.

Publisher

davidkaufman23

Category

arts · business · tv & film

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

4 Oct 2024

Latest episode

8 Jan 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   8 Jan 2026

   Talent Manager Roundtable

   Join Lisa and David for a wide-ranging discussion with four incredible managers who represent young artists: Rikki Dale, Ashley Doss, Nikki Mincks, and Robin Spitzer Miners. This week’s Mailbag question: “What etiquette is expected in the waiting room of a casting office?” RIKKI DALE Rikki Dale is a talent manager representing talent in TV, film, and theater throughout the country. She has clients working as series regulars on prime time TV and streamers, in Oscar-winning films, and on Broadway. Rikki began her career as an actor and acting coach. After starting a family, she transitioned to management to use her own experience and knowledge to serve the next generation of performers. She believes in fair representation, support, nurture, and laughter to make dreams come true! ASHLEY LANE DOSS At Doss Talent, it’s never just about the bookings, it's about the adventure. Watching young actors step onto set for the first time, sign with their first agent or land that dream role is what drives my passion for the work. Every milestone, no matter how big or small, is a step toward something extraordinary. I have built Doss Talent with a genuine commitment to creating positive and supportive environments for the artists I represent and their families. My accessibility, patience and dedication set me apart. My journey in the entertainment industry began in 2003 when I moved to Hollywood to support my young son’s acting endeavors. Inspired by my experiences as the mother of a working actor and 16 years working at a talent management company, I found my calling for developing and supporting young actors and their families. Since venturing out on my own, I have built a robust roster of clients who have appeared as series regular and recurring roles in prominent TV shows such as “Will Trent”, “General Hospital”, “Mad Men”, “Shameless”, “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”, “Man With a Plan”, “Fresh Off the Boat”, “I Feel Bad”, “Pretty Freekin Scary”, “Gordita Chronicles”, “Marvel's Runaways” and many others. Also, in notable films including Tim Burton's “Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children”, the Robert Rodriguez film “We Can Be Heroes”, and “21 Bridges” with Chadwick Boseman and more. My clients have been nominated for Young Artists Awards and a Children and Family Emmy. With a commitment to integrity and a strong devotion to the industry, I’m dedicated to guiding young artists and prioritizing their well-being. NIKKI MINCKS Nikki Mincks is a seasoned talent manager with over a decade of experience guiding actors from early dreams to professional success. She began her career in 2007 as a hands-on mom helping her own children navigate the entertainment industry, which quickly grew into a passion for developing talent and building sustainable careers. Her journey led her into headshot photography, where she gained a deep understanding of branding, casting, and what truly makes talent stand out. That foundation naturally evolved into full-time talent management. Today, Nikki works closely with many of the industry’s top agencies and is known for her personalized, strategic approach to representation. Nikki represents actors ranging from children to adults, with clients appearing in major television series, feature films, and national commercials. She is dedicated to nurturing talent, advocating for her clients, and helping actors build long-term, successful careers. ROBIN SPITZER MINERS After 17 years as an agent representing actors, celebrities, and models, and after building two kids’ departments, Robin went into management where she could concentrate on her passion: developing young actors’ careers. RSM Management has been in business for 17 years. Some of the successes are: Grace Kaufman - The Sky Is Everywhere; Resurrection; Man With A Plan Alexa Havins - All My Children Forrest Wheeler - Fresh Off the Boat Tyler Sanders - Just Add Magic: Mystery City Cole Jensen - Crash & Bernstein Ryan Ochoa - iCarly Raymond

2. 

   4 Dec 2025

   Studio Teacher Kristin Minkler

   Lisa and David talk with studio teacher KRISTIN MINKLER, whose work includes “Abbott Elementary” and so many more of your favorite shows, about both the education and child welfare aspects of her job, and how young performers and their parents can best collaborate with the studio teacher. Topics covered include work hours, work permits and what to do when confronted with particular issues that can arise for minor actors and their parents. This week’s Mailbag question: “Is it better to have my child take acting lessons or participate in a program where my child will play a role in a full production?” KRISTIN MINKLER Kristin Minkler began her teaching career in 1999 after graduating from Pepperdine University. She immediately began teaching English at Granada Hills High School where she was blessed to be mentored by some of the most amazing teachers. Growing up in Southern California, Kristin attended a small private school where many of her friends were working actors. She always knew about studio teaching and decided to get her green card to work during the summers instead of teaching summer school. She fell in love with the job and decided to work full time in the studios. In 2005 she took a little time off when she had her identical twin boys who worked in the industry when they were little. It was at this time Kristin experienced what it was like as a parent which greatly shaped how she approached her job as a studio teacher. Kristin spent over 10 years as the lead teacher working on Nickelodeon shows including “School of Rock”, “Instant Mom”, “Wendell and Vinnie”, “How to Rock”, and “All That". She moved to network with “Life in Pieces” and streaming with Netflix’s “Mr. Iglesias”. Her current show “Abbott Elementary” is the most difficult but most rewarding show she has ever worked on and hopes it runs forever. https://thestudioteachers.com/ THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

3. 

   20 Nov 2025

   Actor Bobby Soto

   Lisa and David talk with the incredible Bobby Soto about his journey from child actor to adult star, his respect for acting and everyone involved in the filming process, and the importance of not outsourcing your own power. This week’s Mailbag question: “As the parents of young performers, do you have any tips for dealing with rejection?” BOBBY SOTO Bobby Soto can be seen in the Amazon feature film, A MILLION MILES AWAY starring opposite Michael Peña and Rosa Salazar. He can also be seen in the Disney/ Searchlight feature film, FLAMIN' HOT, directed by Eva Longoria. Soto’s credits include the Netflix series NARCOS: MEXICO, created and developed by Jose Padilha and Eric Newman, and THE LISTENER with Tessa Thompson and director Steve Buscemi. In 2020, Bobby was seen in Scott Teems' THE QUARRY, opposite Michael Shannon and Shea Whigham. Additionally, Bobby played the lead in David Ayer’s film THE TAX COLLECTOR opposite Shia LaBeouf. It takes Ayer back to his filmic roots of END OF WATCH and TRAINING DAY, wrapped in a modern-day GODFATHER type crime world. Instagram: @bobbyjuniorsoto THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

4. 

   6 Nov 2025

   Suzanne Goddard-Smythe

   Lisa and David talk with award-winning casting director Suzanne Goddard-Smythe about bringing your best to auditions, finding inspiration in classic performances, and what she looks for when casting the young actor. This week’s Mailbag question: “How can I help my young actor prepare for an audition that requires an accent or dialect?” SUZANNE GODDARD-SMYTHE An Emmy nominated Casting Director for RAVEN’S HOME, Suzanne has worked in casting since 1998. She has cast network series such as BECKER, TITUS, GIRLFRIENDS, THE GAME, MALIBU COUNTRY as well as streaming and cable series such as WAREHOUSE 13, LIV & MADDIE, KC UNDERCOVER, THE WHO WAS SHOW?, SCHOOL OF ROCK, NO GOOD NICK, COUNTRY COMFORT and THAT GIRL LAY LAY. Suzanne also was a casting director of the original HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL in 2013-14 playing in Los Angeles and Off-Broadway. Video Games with Quantic Dream include BEYOND: TWO SOULS w/ Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe; DETROIT: BECOME HUMAN with Jesse Williams, Bryan Dechart, Clancy Brown; and STAR WARS: ECLIPSE. Suzanne is a graduate of the UCLA Department of Theatre Arts. THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

5. 

   23 Oct 2025

   Vince LeBica

   Lisa and David talk with one of the West Coast’s top youth voice-over agents, Vince LeBica of DPN Talent Agency, about launching and building your career as a young voice-over artist. This week’s Mailbag question: “What is the most important class that a young actor can take?” VINCE LEBICA Vince LeBica started at DPN Talent Agency in Beverly Hills 11 years ago. DPN is known as a top-tier voice-over agency in the U.S., and it was not long before Vince climbed their rankings to become a Talent Agent. While striving to attain his title in less than two years, Vince established a commercial youth voice-over department at DPN. Over the past nine years Vince has turned this department into one of the most competitive Commercial children's voice-over divisions on the West Coast. In addition to working with kids, Vince’s main focus is general market Commercial, Promo and occasionally Celebrity business. THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

6. 

   9 Oct 2025

   Thom Nemer and Lenny Levin

   On this premiere episode of Season Two, Lisa and David talk with Thom Nemer, the talented young star of the Disney+ feature, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip," and his incredible mom, Lenny Levin. This week’s Mailbag question: “How do you talk with kids about slowdowns in the industry?” THOM NEMER Thom Nemer has established himself through his diverse range of performances. His career commenced with a television advertisement for IHOP, followed by appearances in national commercials and print advertisements. Notably, he also performed an iconic stage concert show with Pete Townshend and Alice Ripley for The Who's production of "Tommy" in 2019, portraying the young Tommy. As he continues his journey, Thom has garnered recognition for his recurring role in the popular television series "Snowfall" as Carlo, the Prime Amazon TV series "Packed" as James, and his appearance in the titular role of Alexander in the Disney+ film "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip." Since the age of six, Thom has developed a natural affinity for the camera, viewing it as his second home. He embraces every opportunity he is on set, bringing characters to life and creating memories. Despite his young age, Thom amuses those around him with his spirited old soul, playful demeanor, humor, energy, and professionalism. When not engaged in projects, Thom dedicates his time to his education, participating in workshops, engaging in sports, writing stories, reading books, playing music, and spending quality time with his family, friends, and canine companion. Instagram: @thomnemerofficial TikTok: @thomnemer THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

7. 

   14 Nov 2024

   Tanner Buchanan

   Lisa and David talk with the multi-talented TANNER BUCHANAN (Robby Keene on the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai”) about the benefits of taking artistic risks, the value of acting, dance and other training, staying true to your values, and the importance of always learning new things. Lisa and David address this week’s mailbag question: “How do you know if tape submissions are being viewed?” We hope you have enjoyed Season One of OPENING DOORS. Season Two coming soon. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast to be notified of upcoming episodes! TANNER BUCHANAN Tanner Buchanan is an American actor who has demonstrated his commitment to the art of acting since the age of 10. He started acting classes with Lisa and David soon after. Tanner has gone on to co-star, guest star, and become a regular in several TV series and movies since he started acting in 2009. Tanner is popularly known for his roles in “Designated Survivor” (ABC) as Leo Kirkman and “Cobra Kai” (Netflix) as Robby Keene. Instagram: @tannerbuchananofficial TikTok: @tannerbuchanan THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

8. 

   7 Nov 2024

   James Duff

   Lisa and David speak with the multifaceted JAMES DUFF, an actor, Broadway playwright, Emmy-nominated screenwriter, and showrunner/creator about how the young actor can approach material with mature and controversial themes, why it’s okay to decline an audition if the role makes you uncomfortable, the importance of telling authentic stories, the role of the showrunner, and much more. This week’s mailbag question: “What should I do if I’m getting conflicting advice from my agent and manager?” JAMES DUFF James Duff was born in New Orleans and raised in Texas where he studied piano, journalism and drama, eventually becoming a working actor, performing in several productions at Theatre Three (Chicago, The Taking Away of Little Willy, The Seagull), Dallas Repertory Theatre (Shenandoah, God’s Favorite), and Casa Mañana (Grease, Man of La Mancha), as well as doing voice overs, commercials and industrial films. On moving to New York, Duff switched careers, deciding to concentrate on writing plays. His first drama, The War at Home, premiered at the Hampstead Theatre Company in London, and successfully traveled the world with productions in Israel, Belgium, Greece, South Africa, Sweden (directed by Ingmar Bergman) and a four-city tour of Germany. Retitled Home Front, it opened on Broadway in January of 1985. His second play, A Quarrel of Sparrows premiered at the Cleveland Playhouse in 1991 and went on to bow at The Promenade Theatre in New York City six months later. That same year, his first television movie, Doing Time on Maple Drive, aired on FOX, garnering Duff an Emmy nomination. Other TV movies include Without A Kiss Goodbye and Betrayed. His series work includes stints writing and producing Popular, Felicity, The Agency and Star Trek: Enterprise, Star Trek: Discovery and Star Trek: Picard. He is probably best known for creating, producing and writing The D.A., The Closer and its spinoff, Major Crimes. The Closer and Major Crimes both reached a worldwide audience of over eighty million viewers. Other work includes executive producing Star Trek: Discovery and Star Trek: Picard. Currently, he is show running Sherlock & Daughter, currently prepping in Dublin. Duff is married to actor Phillip P. Keene and lives in Paris and Southern California. THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

9. 

   31 Oct 2024

   Anne Henry

   Lisa and David welcome Anne Henry, co-founder of BizParentz, the nation's foremost non-profit organization serving professional young performers and their families, for an invaluable conversation about ways to stay safe while pursuing an entertainment career, how to avoid scams, the importance of trusting one’s instincts, navigating social media, and much more. Lisa and David address this week’s mailbag question: “What are some tips for directing your young actor if you have no acting/directing experience?” ANNE HENRY Anne Henry is the mother of 3 former young performers, all of which had successful careers. In her life prior to showbiz, she had a 15-year career as a city administrator where her responsibilities included managing parks and recreation departments, special events, social services, and legislation and public policy. She currently works as an administrator at a private school. Anne served as a parent advisor to the Screen Actors Guild National Young Performers Committee and is the co-founder of BizParentz Foundation (www.bizparentz.org), the nation's foremost non-profit organization serving professional young performers and their families. About BizParentz BizParentz Foundation is a non-profit 501c3 organization serving families in the entertainment industry through education and advocacy. Since its founding in 2004 by Paula Dorn and Anne Henry, BizParentz representatives have provided personal assistance at no charge to thousands of families. They have presented seminars on Coogan Accounts, Parenting Young Performers, Child Actor Taxes, Incorporation/Emancipation, and Predators and Performer Safety.  Anne and Paula have become sought after media and legislative experts on the subject of young performers and have written or sponsored 12 laws protecting children across the country, including the 2012 California Child Performer Protection Act, which for the first time, required fingerprint clearance for adults working with children in the entertainment industry. Anne and Paula were honored for their contributions to the entertainment industry with a formal Commendation from the City of Los Angeles in 2011.

 BizParentz is recognized as the leading organization serving families in the entertainment industry, and the organization has partnered with actors and legislators across the United States to develop safe standards for children in the industry. The articles on the BizParentz website have been translated into more than 10 languages, and Paula and Anne have contributed to multiple national publications, web-based venues, and television shows in the US, Canada, the UK, and Brazil. Recent appearances include NBC’s Today Show, CBS’s Inside Edition, Dr. Drew, Entertainment Tonight, and multiple appearances on CNN. They have been quoted in Vanity Fair, The New York Times, LA Times, The Boston Globe, and Backstage. A feature film, AN OPEN SECRET, documents some of their work and was released to critical acclaim in 2015. Website: www.bizparentz.org Facebook: @bizparentz THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or si

10. 

    24 Oct 2024

    Pedro Tapia

    Lisa and David speak with CESD’s PEDRO TAPIA, one of Los Angeles’ top agents for youth performers, about the actor-agent relationship, including how to get an agent, how to handle slow work periods, the transition from child to young adult performer, the importance of enjoying the process, and much more. Lisa and David address this week’s mailbag question: “How do I know if the relationship with an agent or manager is not working?” PEDRO TAPIA Born and raised in Los Angeles to immigrant parents from Mexico, Pedro Tapia grew up with a deep appreciation for both his heritage and the opportunities around him. Living in the heart of the entertainment industry, he felt inspired to pursue a career in that world and landed his first studio position at Paramount Pictures. It was during his time at Abrams Artists that he discovered his true passion: talent representation. In 2008, he was invited to join the team at CESD Talent Agency, where he has continued to thrive and grow professionally ever since. Instagram: @cesdtalent Facebook: @cesdtalent THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

11. 

    17 Oct 2024

    Krisha Bullock

    Lisa and David welcome award-winning Casting Director KRISHA BULLOCK (iCarly, Victorious, Henry Danger, more) for a wide-ranging discussion covering the importance of studying consistently, “speaking in your own voice” when auditioning, fully embracing your choices, and the most important thing about self-tapes. Lisa and David discuss this week’s mailbag question: “How do you know if your child has talent?” KRISHA BULLOCK Krisha Bullock is half of the amazing casting duo of Bullock & Snow Casting. An LA based Casting Director, Krisha is one of the most influential, multi award-winning casting directors in the industry today. She specializes in youth casting, from hit children’s television shows on kid-friendly networks to feature films and commercials. Krisha Bullock’s impressive credits include DANGER FORCE, SIDE HUSTLE, HENRY DANGER, GAME SHAKERS, iCARLY, VICTORIOUS, and more! Most recently Krisha was awarded the Seymour Heller Award for Youth Television Casting Director(s) of the Year by the Talent Manager's Association which honors "those in the industry who operate with dedication and the highest of ethics and standards". Krisha is so grateful to spend most of her days laughing and working hard to find the best talent for every role. Krisha prides herself on maintaining an inviting and actor-friendly atmosphere with an emphasis on keeping the casting office a youthful and fun place to be creative in. Outside of casting, Krisha is a mom, an avid yogi, and lover of the outdoors. Additionally, she has been a mentor and teacher to thousands of hopeful young people, helping them break into the industry and navigating them toward a professional career. “Performers love her fun, informative, educational workshops. You can tell she loves what she does in the world of children's casting, because it radiates through in her feedback and critiques in class.” Instagram: @bullockandsnowcasting Website: www.bullockandsnowcasting.com THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

12. 

    4 Oct 2024

    Brenna D'Amico

    Lisa and David talk with Disney "Descendants" star Brenna D'Amico about the importance of creating your supportive community, her relationship with social media, not letting others define you, and her friendship with the late Cameron Boyce and her other co-stars. From the mailbag, Lisa and David discuss when an actor should and should not work for free. The Cameron Boyce Foundation honors the legacy of Cameron Boyce by aiming to cure epilepsy through funding research, education and awareness campaigns while still supporting causes that were important to Cameron. For more information and to donate go to The Cameron Boyce Foundation. BRENNA D’AMICO Brenna D’Amico is an up-and-coming actress who has amassed a body of work that encompasses both television and film. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Brenna grew up on stage, performing in a variety of musicals and theatrical productions. Brenna would land her breakout role playing JANE in the Disney Channel movie franchise DESCENDANTS, directed and choreographed by Kenny Ortega. Following DESCENDANTS, Brenna landed guest-starring roles in the hit ABC comedy series THE MIDDLE and in the medical drama CODE BLACK. Brenna can also be seen in the following independent feature films: DALLY & SPANKY, SATURDAY AT THE STARLIGHT, THE NEVER LIST, and NIGHT, NIGHT, all streaming on networks like Apple TV, Amazon Prime, etc. Brenna also starred as a lead in the comedic coming of age film, CRUSHED, on Tubi. In 2024, Brenna will be filming a psychological thriller as well as a coming-of-age film. In addition to acting, Brenna has a passion for music; she sings and plays piano and guitar. Instagram: @brennadamico TikTok: @brennie88 THE YOUNG ACTOR WORKSPACE was born out of a single request — a mom who was looking for help with an audition for her son. At the time, the young actor was doing a play with Lisa Picotte and David Kaufman. They were both happy to share their personal insight and advice on how to approach the particularly difficult audition material. He booked the job. Word of mouth ensued and a studio was born. In the past 20 years, Lisa and David have worked with hundreds of young actors, both in weekly classes and private coaching. Some of the young actors who have studied and coached with them have gone on to tremendous success — Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Lautner, Rico Rodriguez, Raini Rodriguez, Grace Kaufman, Tanner Buchanan, Haley Ramm, Brenna D’Amico, Bobby Soto, just to name a few. While these young actors’ success is a point of pride for Lisa and David, they are just as proud of the many other young actors who are also working regularly, or simply gaining the skills to go out into the world feeling confident in their ability to speak in front of and honestly engage with others in whatever paths they eventually choose. While the studio continues to thrive, Lisa is now a sought-after set coach for young actors. She has worked for ABC, CBS, Showtime, Apple TV Plus and Disney among others. Instagram: @lisapicotteworkspace Facebook: @lisapicotteworkspace Website: www.youngactorworkspace.com

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

23 ratings

Contact OPENING DOORS: The Young Actor Workspace Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

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