The Sauce

How do you spot a bad deal in commercial casting?

In this episode, Steph and Al dive into the major red flags actors should watch out for when it comes to fees, buyouts, and brand categories.

Drawing from a recent experience, they break down why a low fee for a global brand in a competitive category is a huge industry pitfall and discuss the fine line between servicing clients and protecting the integrity of actors' careers.

Later, they tackle the common fear many actors have about sharing their self-tapes and discuss why finding a safe community to get feedback is a green flag for career growth.

Takeaways

• A major red flag is when a commercial for a big brand in a competitive category (like cars, finance, or pharmaceuticals) offers a low fee for a long or global buyout.
• This kind of deal can take an actor out of the market for that entire category for years, for a fee that doesn't provide a sustainable income.
• There is a growing trend of inexperienced producers setting unrealistic talent budgets, which creates friction and ultimately hurts actors.
• Chicken & Chips Casting alone has quoted on nearly 1200 jobs, giving them extensive expertise on what constitutes a fair rate.
• Feeling fear or imposter syndrome about sharing your self-tapes is normal, even in a safe, closed community like the Audition Academy.
• Sharing your work with peers is crucial for getting validation and technical ideas, especially for new actors who have never been in a physical audition room.
• Remember that any sign of progress—getting asked to self-tape, receiving a callback, or booking a role—is feedback that you are actively "doing the thing."

Chapters

00:00 - Hello & Welcome
00:36 - Today's Topics: Red Flags & Imposter Syndrome
03:02 - What Small, Unimportant Hill Will You Die On?
06:23 - The Main Event: Red Flags in Commercial Fees & Buyouts
13:22 - Red Flag #1: Analysing the Brand Category vs. The Fee
17:56 - Topic 2: Imposter Syndrome and the Fear of Sharing Self-Tapes
22:16 - A Reminder: Even a Request to Self-Tape is Positive Feedback

Connect with Steph and Al:

Chicken and Chips Casting:

In the creative arts industry, the mental and emotional toll on artists can be immense. This is where Trish Spears, the "mind mechanic," comes in.

In this episode, Trish explains how most of our limiting beliefs are just old programs installed before the age of seven and how, through techniques like NLP and hypnotherapy, we can rewrite them to achieve our best.

She discusses the crucial need for on-set mental health support—from script assessment to post-production—to ensure actors can safely navigate traumatic scenes, embody difficult characters, and leave the work at work.

Takeaways

• Most of our unconscious programming is installed by the age of seven, and our brain runs these old programs automatically when under stress.
• You can begin to reprogram your brain by interrupting negative thoughts and focusing on the pictures and words associated with what you do want to happen.
• A simple way to challenge a limiting belief is to ask, "What if you could?" which forces your brain to create a new picture of possibility.
• Trish has developed a process for actors to "enrol" into a character by stepping into an avatar and "derolling" at the end of the day by hanging the "costume" up, creating a healthy separation between self and character.
• Producers should ideally engage a mental health coordinator at the script-reading phase to conduct a risk assessment, which makes the entire production process safer and easier.
• A simple trick to stop overwhelming feelings or crying is to keep your head straight and look up as if into your own eyebrows; this takes you out of your feeling (kinesthetic) state and into your visual processing state.

Chapters

00:00 - Introducing Trish Spears: The Mind Mechanic
04:20 - The Motivation Behind Mentally Strong Productions
10:41 - How to Decompress After Playing a Heavy Role
15:45 - The Two Most Important Things: The Words and Pictures in Your Mind
24:39 - Supporting Actors with Lived Experience on Set
37:31 - The Ideal Time for Productions to Bring in a Mental Health Coordinator
45:26 - An Actionable Tip to Stop Overwhelming Feelings

Connect with Trish:

With Donald Trump proposing new tariffs on international films, the Australian film industry is on edge, facing uncertainty and the potential for a significant disruption to the production supply chain. In this episode, Steph and Al discuss what these tariffs could mean for local filmmakers, from increased costs on imported gear to the potential for streaming services to shy away from purchasing international content.

Takeaways

• The proposed tariffs on international films are vague, but they could increase production costs on everything from camera gear to post-production, making Australian films more expensive to create.
• There is speculation the tariffs could be passed on to the consumer, potentially doubling cinema ticket prices for international features and depressing audience numbers further.
• Al discuss entering a "midlife crisis" phase in their late 30s, exploring feelings of disillusionment, hormonal changes, and the desire for identity reclamation.
• Steph shares a new drink trend: adding jalapeños to a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

Chapters

00:00 - Can't Sleep? Try Working or Raiding the Fridge
04:14 - The New Trend: Savvy B with Jalapeños
07:23 - Are We Having a Midlife Crisis?
16:13 - Sydney Film Festival Opening Night
24:17 - Donald Trump's Proposed Tariffs on Film

Connect with Steph and Al:

Chicken and Chips Casting:

Filmmaking is a bloodsport, and no one tells you that before you sign up.

This episode, we’re sitting down with Nik Kacevski—writer, director, producer, and all-around filmmaking survivor—to talk about the real shit that happens behind the scenes. Forget the glossy Hollywood version—this is about bad deals, casting nightmares, industry politics, and why filmmaking is basically organised chaos.

We get into:

• The brutal reality of getting a film funded—and why it might cost you your sanity.

• How selling your film rights can haunt you for years (Nik learned this the hard way).

• The casting process no one understands, including why the best audition doesn’t always win.

• Hollywood’s “offer-only” system and why it’s killing actual art.

• The truth about breaking into the industry when no one’s giving you a seat at the table.

This episode is messy, hilarious, and a full-on reality check for anyone who’s ever dreamed of making movies. We’re talking real stories, real regrets, and real lessons that no one teaches you in film school.

If you’re in the industry (or trying to be), you can’t afford to miss this one.

About Our Guest

Nik Kacevski is an acclaimed filmmaker, writer, and director whose work spans feature films, TV series, music videos, and commercials. With a background in visual effects and animation, Nik has built a career crafting bold, immersive storytelling experiences that blur the lines between genre and reality.

His directorial work includes award-winning films and projects that have screened globally, and he has collaborated with major brands and artists to create visually stunning, narrative-driven content. With a deep passion for independent filmmaking, Nik has been at the forefront of pushing creative storytelling while navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry.

Look, we barely survived January, and honestly, February wasn’t much better. School holidays dragged on for centuries, mum guilt hit an all-time high, and trying to run a business while keeping small humans alive? A shit show.

But somehow, we made it. And now we’re back, caffeinated (or maybe just delirious), and deep in the ultimate reframe—because if we don’t shift our mindset, who will?

This episode, we’re talking:

• The mental load of school chaos (seriously, what do teachers do on those PD days?)

• Running a business when the world expects you to just “pause” for six weeks

• Rewiring our brains for success, abundance, and not self-sabotaging

• Vision boards, manifestation, and why we’re drinking the biggest glass of Kool-Aid

• The “cut from the tree” method—AKA, why some people just need to go

If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing at life while everyone else is thriving, this one’s for you. We’re all just winging it—so let’s do it together.

Hit play, and let’s get into it.

Don’t Miss Out

• Subscribe toThe Sauce on your favourite podcast platform.

• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!

• Share with a Friend: If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them!

Stay Connected

For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and updates:

Dating in your 30s isa whole different beast—especially when you’re a single parent, emotionally unavailable, or just trying to dodge “The Talk” for as long as possible. In this episode, we unpack theawkward realities of modern dating, from the pressure of sending gifts too soon to the unspoken expectations lurking behind every dating app match. Is exclusivity inevitable? Are dating apps actually dead? And why does a simple bouquet of flowers feel like a marriage proposal? Buckle up forhilarious rants, brutally honest truths, and some serious dating therapy.

Talk points:

00:00:22 - The 'How are you?' Dilemma

00:05:10 - Favorite Age Discussion

00:07:16 - Birthday Gift Dilemma

00:10:53 - The Aftermath

00:13:18 - The Talk

00:15:28 - The Dating Dilemma

00:16:13 - The Flower Incident

00:16:31 - The U-Haul Theory

00:17:55 - Reflections on Relationships

00:18:30 - Unpacking Relationship Dynamics

00:23:14 - The Funeral Question

00:27:43 - The Emotional Investment

00:29:18 - The Pace of Relationships

00:29:54 - The Time Constraint

00:31:28 - Dating App Experiences

00:48:05 - The Role of Men in Relationships

00:49:05 - Ghosting and Dating

00:50:11 - Dating App Messaging

00:51:28 - The Problem with Dating Apps

01:00:16 - Accidental Love Confession

01:05:13 - Avoidance and Disappearance

01:06:15 - Single-Parent Dating

Don’t Miss Out

• Subscribe toThe Sauce on your favourite podcast platform.

• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It helps us reach more listeners like you!

• Share with a Friend: If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, share it with them!

Stay Connected

For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and updates:

Sit down with industry expert George Konstand to explore the transformative concept of the actor’s archetype. If you’ve ever felt pigeonholed or uncertain about how to present yourself in auditions, this conversation is your key to taking control and standing out.

What You’ll Learn

• Archetype vs. Typecast: Understand the crucial difference and how recognising your archetype puts you in the driver’s seat of your acting career.

• Owning Your Narrative: Learn how embracing your unique qualities can empower you to make strategic choices in auditions and roles.

• The New Casting Paradigm: Discover why authenticity and individuality are now more valued than ever in casting decisions.

• First Impressions Matter: Gain insights into how your visual presence and initial impression can significantly influence casting outcomes.

• Leveraging Social Media: Explore the growing importance of personal branding and social media in today’s entertainment industry.

Key Discussion Points

• Understanding Your Archetype: George explains how identifying your archetype allows you to either align with or intentionally defy expectations, giving you greater control over your career trajectory.

• Shifting Casting Preferences: The industry is moving away from solely seeking the most skilled actors to finding the most interesting and authentic individuals.

• Visual Perception in Casting: First impressions are powerful. Learn how to make yours count from the moment you step into the audition room.

• The Role of Social Media: Contracts increasingly require actors to maintain an active online presence. Find out how to use this to your advantage.

Memorable Quotes

• “Actors, know thyself. Mastering your archetype is the first step to mastering your career.” — George Konstand

• “Casting directors are looking for authenticity. Your unique archetype is what sets you apart.” — Alison Fowler

• “Understanding your archetype isn’t about limiting yourself; it’s about empowering yourself with choice.” — Steph Pringle

About Our Guest

George Konstand is a seasoned entertainment industry professional specialising in actor development and casting dynamics. With extensive experience collaborating with actors, casting directors, and producers, George offers unparalleled insights into how understanding your archetype can unlock new opportunities and empower you to take control of your career.

Struggling to get noticed in the crowded acting industry? Discover how TikTok can be a game-changer for your acting career. In this episode, social media sensation Maddy MacRae shares her insider tips on leveraging TikTok to showcase your talent, build a following, and catch the eye of casting directors. Learn how to create engaging content, build your personal brand, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media to give your acting career the boost it needs.

What You’ll Learn

• Why TikTok Matters for Actors: Understand the platform’s potential to elevate your acting career.

• Creating Engaging Content: Learn how to craft videos that showcase your skills and attract followers.

• Building a Personal Brand: Discover strategies to develop a unique online presence that stands out.

• Navigating Algorithms: Get insights into how TikTok’s algorithm works and how to make it work for you.

• Connecting with Industry Professionals: Find out how to network with casting directors and agents through social media.

Key Discussion Points

• Maddy’s Journey: How she grew her TikTok following and the impact it had on her career.

• Content Creation Tips: Practical advice on video ideas, trends, and staying authentic.

• Overcoming Challenges: Discussing common obstacles actors face on social media and how to overcome them.

• The Future of Casting: Exploring how social media influence is shaping casting decisions.

Memorable Quotes

• “TikTok isn’t just for dances; it’s a platform where actors can showcase their range and creativity.” — Maddy MacRae

• “Your online presence can be your audition tape to the world.” — Alison Fowler

• “In today’s industry, casting directors are looking at social media to discover new talent.” — Steph Pringle

About Our Guest

Maddy MacRae is a rising star and social media influencer known for her engaging TikTok content that blends acting, comedy, and storytelling. Maddy has successfully leveraged TikTok to advance her acting career and inspire others to do the same.

Ever feel like someone’s trying to box you into one role? We’ve been there. In this episode, we dig into the frustrating notion of being told to “stay in your lane.” It’s advice we’ve heard too often as casting directors, and frankly, we’re not here for it.

As casting directors and entrepreneurs, we’ve never been content with sticking to just one thing. We talk about why we refuse to limit ourselves, even when people try to hold us back. From running a business to hosting this podcast and everything in between, we explore how diversifying your skills isn’t just smart—it’s essential in today’s world.

We get real about how tall poppy syndrome, internalized misogyny, and fear of failure try to keep people small, especially women. But let’s be honest—no one ever did anything great by playing it safe. So why should we?

Tune in to hear our thoughts on ambition, rejecting societal expectations, and why it’s time for all of us to do whatever the hell we want.

Click and listen now—because staying in one lane is not an option.

Child acting with Todd O'Mara and Emma Jane Hyland from T&E Management.

Established in 2011, T&E Management is one of the most highly regarded talent agencies in the country, representing both kids and adults in the entertainment industry.

They share their expertise on what it takes for children to succeed in acting, how to support them, and how to navigate the highs and lows of the business.

From learning how to self-tape effectively to handling rejections, Todd and Emma offer invaluable advice for aspiring young actors and their families.

Get ready for an in-depth conversation about the realities and joys of the child acting world.

T&E Management

"You have to figure it out on your own!”

In this episode, we talk about:

• Embracing the mantra of self-reliance as single mothers

• Overcoming practical challenges like electrical issues at home

• Balancing the demands of business ownership and parenting

• The importance of community support and asking for help

• Finding personal space and autonomy amidst chaos

How did Brendan’s childhood dreams shape his career in the entertainment industry?

Discover Brendan’s unique journey from aspiring actor to producer. Hear his humorous childhood misconceptions, insights on the financial realities of acting, and the challenges of producing a TV show. This episode is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons on adaptability and growth in the entertainment industry.
“Transitioning to production opened up a world of opportunities I never imagined.”

Alex Culliver and Sarah Nathan Share Their Experiences
“The pandemic has really changed the dynamics in the industry, making people more accessible and breaking down hierarchical barriers.” 
What led Alex Culliver and Sarah Nathan to start their own talent agency, Nathan Culliver Management? 

In this episode, they share their non-linear career paths and how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped their perspectives. 

They discuss how self-taping has deepened their understanding of clients’ capabilities and personal lives, leading to better representation. 

With a focus on supporting emerging talent and filmmakers, Alex and Sarah are dedicated to fostering growth and creativity in the industry. 

Their path shows a commitment to making the entertainment world more accessible and collaborative.

Join us for a laugh-out-loud episode where we get into the entertainment industry, single mum life and rushing woman syndrome. Get ready for a hilarious review of a baffling Romanian film we saw at Sydney Film Festival, Steph’s epic house clean-up hack, and Al's school fundraiser fiasco. Plus, hear all about how we juggle work, kids, and everything in between. Don’t miss out on the fun and chaos!